Anti-cd40 antibodies

ABSTRACT

The present invention related to new humanized antanogistic anti-CD40 antibodies and therapeutic and diagnostic methods and compositions for using the same.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.16/031,209, filed Jul. 10, 2018, which issued as U.S. Pat. No.11,242,394 on Feb. 8, 2022, which is a Continuation of U.S. applicationSer. No. 15/341,085, filed Nov. 2, 2016, abandoned, which is aContinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/098,388, filed Apr. 4,2016, abandoned, which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/742,764, filed Jun. 18, 2015, abandoned, which is a Continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 14/046,121, filed Oct. 4, 2013, which issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 9,090,696, on Jul. 28, 2015, which is a Divisional ofU.S. application Ser. No. 13/075,303, filed Mar. 30, 2011, which issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 8,591,900, on Nov. 26, 2013, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/319,574, filed Mar. 31, 2010.

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has beensubmitted in ASCII format via EFS-WEB and is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on Jul. 6, 2018, isnamed sequence.txt and is 105 KB.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to humanized anti-CD40 antibodies fordiagnostic and therapeutic use. More specifically, humanized anti-CD40antibodies and methods of use for the treatment of various diseases ordisorders characterized by cells expressing CD40 are disclosed.Pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising the humanized anti-CD40antibody are also disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

CD40 is a 48 kDa type I integral membrane glycoprotein and a member ofthe tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily. CD40 is expressedon a variety of cell types including normal and neoplastic B cells,interdigitating cells, carcinomas, epithelial cells (e.g.keratinocytes), fibroblasts (e.g. synoviocytes) and platelets. It isalso present on monocytes, macrophages, some endothelial cells, andfollicular dendritic cells. CD40 is expressed early in B cell ontogeny,appearing on B cell precursors subsequent to the appearance of CD10 andCD19, but prior to expression of CD21, CD23, CD24, and appearance ofsurface immunoglobulin M (sIgM) (Uckun et al., 1990, Blood 15:2449).CD40 has also been detected on tonsil and bone marrow-derived plasmacells (Pellat-Decounynck et al., 1994, Blood 84:2597).

The ligand of CD40 is CD40L (also referred to as CD154, gp39, and TRAP),a TNF superfamily member. CD40L is a transmembrane protein expressedpredominantly on activated CD4⁺ T cells and a small subset of CD8+ Tcells (Reviewed by (Van Kooten C. and Banchereau, 2000).

The interaction of CD40 with CD40L induces both humoral andcell-mediated immune responses. CD40 regulates this ligand-receptor pairto activate B cells and other antigen-presenting cells (APC) includingdendritic cells (DCs) (Reviewed by (Toubi and Shoenfeld, 2004); (Kiener,et al., 1995). The function of CD40 on B cells has been studiedextensively. Activation of CD40 on B cells induces proliferation,differentiation into antibody secreting cells and isotype switching ingerminal centers of secondary lymphoid organs. In vitro studies haveshown direct effects of CD40 activation on cytokine production (IL-6,IL-10, TNF-α, LT-α), expression of adhesion molecules and costimulatoryreceptors (ICAM, CD23, CD80 and CD86), and increased expression of MHCclass I, MHC class II, and TAP transporter by B lymphocytes (Liu, etal., 1996). For most of these processes, CD40 acts in concert witheither cytokines or other receptor-ligand interactions.

CD40 signaling on monocytes and DCs results in enhanced survival as wellas secretion of cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α andMIP-1a). CD40 ligation on these APCs also leads to the up-regulation ofcostimulatory molecules such as (ICAM-1, LFA-3, CD80, and CD86).Activation of CD40 receptors is one of the critical signals that allowthe full maturation of DC into efficient APCs driving T cell activation(Banchereau and Steinman, 1998) (Van Kooten C. and Banchereau, 2000).

Recent studies in mouse models showed that CD40 signaling on dendriticcells also plays an important role in the generation of TH17 cells whichare considered as mediators of autoimmunity in diseases such asarthritis and multiple sclerosis (lezzi, et al., 2009) (Perona-Wright,et al., 2009).

The availability of CD40 and CD40L knock-out mice as well as agonisticand antagonistic anti-mouse antibodies offered the possibility to studythe role of CD40-CD40L interactions in several disease models.Administration of blocking anti-CD40L has been demonstrated to bebeneficial in several models of autoimmunity including spontaneousdiseases like lupus nephritis in SNF1 mice or diabetes in NOD mice or inexperimentally induced forms of disease like collagen-induced arthritis(CIA) or experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) (Toubi andShoenfeld, 2004). CIA in mice was inhibited by an anti-CD40L mAb whichblocked the development of joint inflammation, serum antibody titers tocollagen, the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the subsynovialtissue in addition to the erosion of cartilage and bone (Durie, et al.,1993). Both for lupus nephritis and EAE, it was demonstrated thatanti-CD40L could also alleviate ongoing disease, confirming the role ofCD40-CD40L in the effector phase of the disease (Kalled, et al., 1998);(Howard, et al., 1999).

The role for CD40-CD40L interactions in the development of EAE was alsostudied in CD40L-deficient mice that carried a transgenic T cellreceptor specific for myelin basic protein. These mice failed to developEAE after priming with antigen, and CD4+ T cells remained quiescent andproduced no INF-γ (Grewal, et al., 1996).

Furthermore, inhibitory antibodies directed against CD40 showedbeneficial effects in inflammatory disease models such as EAE. Lamannand colleagues demonstrated that the antagonistic mouse anti-human CD40mAb mu5D12 and a chimeric version of this mAb effectively preventedclinical expression of chronic demyelinating EAE in outbred marmosetmonkeys (Laman, et al., 2002); (Boon, et al., 2001). A follow-up studyshowed that therapeutic treatment with the chimeric anti-human CD40antibody reduces MRI-detectable inflammation and delays enlargement ofpre-existing brain lesions in the marmoset EAE model (Hart, et al.,2005).

Anti-CD40 antibodies with agonistic activity were tested in mouse modelsof arthritis with some conflicting results. As expected for animmunostimulatory agent, the agonistic anti-mouse CD40 mAb FGK45 wasshown to exacerbate disease in the DBA/1 mouse model of CIA (Tellander,et al., 2000). However, in another chronic CIA model FGK45, and anotheragonistic anti-mouse CD40 mAb, 3/23, both exhibited positive therapeuticeffects (Mauri, et al., 2000). It was postulated by this group that theagonistic antibodies in this therapeutic treatment regimen have abeneficial effect by inducing immune deviation towards a Th2 responsewith decreased levels of IFN-γ and increased levels of IL-4 and IL-10(Mauri, et al., 2000).

The prevention of transplant rejection by blocking CD40/CD154interactions has also been documented. The use of ch5D12, a chimericanti-CD40 antagonist, in renal allograft studies in rhesus monkeysindicates that antagonism of CD40 is sufficient for disease modificationand lengthening mean survival times past 100 days. When ch5D12 wascombined with an anti-CD86 antibody and given only at the initiation ofthe allograft studies followed by prolonged treatment with cyclosporine,mean survival times greater than 4 years were achieved, indicating thiscombination can potentially induce tolerance (Haanstra, et al., 2005).

Thus, there are ample preclinical studies that provide evidence for thecrucial role of the CD40-CD40L dyad in driving an efficient Tcell-dependent immune response. Blocking of CD40 signaling is thereforerecognized as a suitable and needed therapeutic strategy to suppress apathogenic autoimmune response in diseases such as RA, multiplesclerosis or psoriasis. However, to date, there are no CD40 antibodiesthat have been approved for therapeutic intervention of such disordersdue to the findings that anti-CD40 antibodies previously in developmentwere shown to have significant side effects. Thus, there remains asignificant need for therapeutic agents that can be used to intervene inthe action of the CD40-CD40L and block CD40 signaling. This need couldbe addressed by new humanized anti-CD40 antibodies that specificallybind CD40 and which show the antigen binding specificity, affinity, andpharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties that allow use thereof intherapeutic intervention of CD40 based disorders.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a humanized monoclonal antibody whereinsaid antibody specifically binds to human CD40 having an antagonisticactivity IC50 of less than 1 nM and has no agonism up to 100 μg/ml in Bcell proliferation and wherein said antibody is further characterized inthat the antibody has an in vivo half life in non-human primates that isat least 10 days.

The humanized monoclonal antibody may be further characterized in thatthe antibody has a half-life in cynomolgus monkeys of greater than 8days at a dose of less than 30 mg/kg.

In exemplary embodiments, the antibody of the invention comprises aheavy chain sequence selected from the group consisting of any of SEQ IDNO:1 to SEQ ID NO:4 and a light chain sequence selected from the groupconsisting of any of SEQ ID NO:5 to SEQ ID NO:8.

In other embodiments, the antibody is a humanized antibody or antigenbinding fragment of an antibody having the heavy chain variable regionamino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ IDNO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ IDNO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, SEQ IDNO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 44, SEQ ID NO: 46, SEQ ID NO: 48, SEQID NO. 50 SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQ ID NO: 57, SEQ ID NO: 58, SEQ ID NO: 59,SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61, SEQ ID NO: 62, SEQ ID NO: 63, SEQ ID NO:64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO: 67, SEQ ID NO: 68, SEQ IDNO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ ID NO: 71, SEQ ID NO: 72, or SEQ ID NO: 73.

In other embodiments, the antibody is a humanized antibody or antigenbinding fragment of an antibody that comprises a light chain variabledomain amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 to SEQ ID NO:8, SEQ ID NO:26,SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ ID NO:43, SEQ ID NO:45,SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ ID NO:51, SEQ ID NO:52,SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:55, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ ID NO:74, SEQ ID NO:75, orSEQ ID NO:76.

In specific embodiments, the monoclonal antibody described herein ischaracterized in that it comprises a heavy chain and a light chain,wherein the heavy chain CDR1 sequence selected from the group consistingof SEQ ID NO: 9 through SEQ ID NO:11, a heavy chain CDR2 sequenceselected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:12 through SEQ ID NO:15and a heavy chain CDR3 sequence selected from the group consisting ofSEQ ID NO:16 through SEQ ID NO:17; and wherein the light chain CDR1sequence has a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ IDNO:18 through SEQ ID NO:21, a light chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:22through SEQ ID NO:23 and a light chain CDR3 sequence selected from thegroup consisting of SEQ ID NO:24 through SEQ ID NO:25.

In specific embodiments, the monoclonal antibody described herein ischaracterized in that it comprises a heavy chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ IDNO: 10, a heavy chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:13 and a heavy chainCDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:16; and wherein said antibody comprises alight chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ ID NO:19, a light chain CDR2 sequenceof SEQ ID NO:22 and a light chain CDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:24.

In other specific embodiments, the monoclonal antibody described hereinis characterized in that it comprises a heavy chain CDR1 sequence of SEQID NO: 9, a heavy chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:14 and a heavy chainCDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:16; and wherein said antibody comprises alight chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ ID NO:20, a light chain CDR2 sequenceof SEQ ID NO:22 and a light chain CDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:24.

In another specific embodiment, the monoclonal antibody described hereinis characterized in that it comprises a heavy chain CDR1 sequence of SEQID NO: 9, a heavy chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:14 and a heavy chainCDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:16; and wherein said antibody comprises alight chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ ID NO:20, a light chain CDR2 sequenceof SEQ ID NO:22 and a light chain CDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:24.

In another specific embodiment, the monoclonal antibody described hereinis characterized in that it comprises a heavy chain CDR1 sequence of SEQID NO: 11, a heavy chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:15 and a heavy chainCDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:17; and wherein said antibody comprises alight chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ ID NO:21, a light chain CDR2 sequenceof SEQ ID NO:23 and a light chain CDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:25.

Also described herein are individual sequences for heavy chains of thepreferred antibodies of the invention. The invention, for example,relates to an anti-CD40 antibody comprising a heavy chain variabledomain sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:1 to 4. The anti-CD40 antibodyis further characterized as comprising a light chain variable domainsequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 5 to SEQ ID NO:8.

Also contemplated is a humanized antibody or antibody fragment having aheavy chain variable domain and a light chain variable region comprisingthe amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:27 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively;SEQ ID NO:28 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:29 and SEQ IDNO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:30 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ IDNO:32 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:33 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:34 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:35and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively; SEQ ID NO:38 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:39and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:40 and SEQ ID NO: 36,respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:27 andSEQ ID NO:26, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:28 andSEQ ID NO:26, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:29 andSEQ ID NO:26, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:30 andSEQ ID NO:26, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:32 andSEQ ID NO:31, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:33 andSEQ ID NO:31, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:34 andSEQ ID NO:31, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:35 andSEQ ID NO:31, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:37 andSEQ ID NO:36, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:38 andSEQ ID NO:36, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:39 andSEQ ID NO:36, respectively.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a humanized antibody orantibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chainvariable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:40 andSEQ ID NO: 36, respectively,

Another embodiment relates to an isolated antibody or antigen-bindingfragment that specifically binds to human CD40, comprising a humanizedheavy chain variable domain comprising a framework region having anamino acid sequence at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence ofthe framework region of the human variable domain heavy chain amino acidsequence of SEQ ID NO: 27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO:29 or SEQ ID NO:30,and comprising a light chain amino acid sequence at least 90% identicalto a corresponding light chain variable domain of SEQ ID NO:26.

Another embodiment relates to an isolated antibody or antigen-bindingfragment that specifically binds to human CD40, comprising a humanizedheavy chain variable domain comprising a framework region having anamino acid sequence at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence ofthe framework region of the human variable domain heavy chain amino acidsequence of SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34 or SEQ ID NO:35,and comprising a light chain amino acid sequence at least 90% identicalto a corresponding light chain variable of SEQ ID NO:31.

In another aspect, the invention relates to the isolated antibody orantigen-binding fragment described in the embodiment immediately above,wherein the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ ID NO:32; in anotherembodiment, the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ ID NO:33; inanother embodiment, the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ ID NO:34;and in another embodiment, the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ IDNO:35,

Also contemplated is an isolated antibody or antigen-binding fragmentthat specifically binds to human CD40, comprising a humanized heavychain variable domain comprising a framework region having an amino acidsequence at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of theframework region of the human variable domain heavy chain amino acidsequence of SEQ ID NO: 37, SEQ ID NO:38; SEQ ID NO:39 or SEQ ID NO: 40,and comprising a light chain amino acid sequence at least 90% identicalto a corresponding light chain of SEQ ID NO:36.

In another aspect, the invention relates to the isolated antibody orantigen-binding fragment described in the embodiment immediately above,wherein the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ ID NO:37; in anotherembodiment, the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ ID NO:38; inanother embodiment, the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ ID NO:39;and in another embodiment, the heavy chain amino acid sequence is SEQ IDNO:40,

The antibodies of the present invention may be further characterized inthat said antibodies fail to stimulate production of cytokines from Bcells in that absence of CD40L.

The antibodies of the present invention may be further characterized inthat said antibodies bind to human CD40 in the presence of 50% humanserum with a reduction of on rate less than two fold.

The antibodies of the present invention may be further characterized inthat said antibody produces inhibition of IgM and IgG production in amammal at a concentration of 1 mg/kg.

The antibodies of the present invention may be used in varioustherapeutic, prophylactic, diagnostic and other methods. For example,the present invention describes a method of blocking the function ofhuman CD40 in a mammal comprising administering to said mammal acomposition comprising an antibody of the invention in an amountsufficient to block a CD40 mediated immune response in said mammal.

Also contemplated herein is a method of treating or ameliorating graftvs host disease in a mammal comprising administering to said mammal acomposition comprising an antibody of the invention in an amountsufficient to decrease one or more of the symptoms of graft vs. hostdisease in said animal.

By way of example, the autoimmune or inflammatory disease may includebut is not limited to rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis,proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis, inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), psoriasis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), Crohn'sDisease and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Hashimoto's thyroiditis,primary myxoedema, thyrotoxicosis/Graves disease, pernicious anaemia,autoimmune atrophic gastritis, autoimmune carditis, Addison's disease,premature menopause, type 1-diabetes mellitus, Good pasture's syndrome,myasthenia gravis, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, idiopathic leucopenia,primary biliary cirrhosis, active chronic hepatitis (HBs Ag negative),cryptogenic cirrhosis, Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, scleroderma,mixed tissues connective disease, discoid lupus erythematosus, andsystemic vasculitis. In exemplary embodiments, the mammal has rheumatoidarthritis.

The methods of the invention may further comprise administering a secondtherapeutic agent selected from the group consisting of aTNF-antagonist, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, aCTLA4-antagonist, an anti-IL-6 receptor mAb and an anti-CD20 mAb.

In specific embodiments, the inflammatory disease or autoimmune diseaseis an inflammatory disease or autoimmune disease that is associated withcells expressing both CD40 and CD20.

In specific methods the treatment involves administering the antibodycomposition by a parenteral route of administration.

In specific methods the treatment involves administering the antibodycomposition intravenously or subcutaneously.

Additional methods of the invention comprise inhibiting antibodyproduction by B cells in a human patient comprising administering tosaid human patient an effective amount of an anti-CD40 antibody of theinvention.

More specifically, the human patient has an inflammatory disease orautoimmune disease that is associated with CD40-expressing cells.

In exemplary embodiments the human patient is suffering from anautoimmune disease selected from the group consisting of autoimmune orinflammatory disease selected from the group consisting of rheumatoidarthritis, multiple sclerosis, proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis,inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), psoriasis, idiopathic thrombocytopenicpurpura (ITP), Crohn's Disease and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE),Hashimoto's thyroiditis, primary myxoedema, thyrotoxicosis/Gravesdisease, pernicious anaemia, autoimmune atrophic gastritis, autoimmunecarditis, Addison's disease, premature menopause, type 1-diabetesmellitus, Good pasture's syndrome, myasthenia gravis, autoimmunehaemolytic anaemia, idiopathic leucopenia, primary biliary cirrhosis,active chronic hepatitis (HBs Ag negative), cryptogenic cirrhosis,Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, mixed tissuesconnective disease, discoid lupus erythematosus, and systemicvasculitis.

Another method of the invention relates to inhibiting the growth ofcells expressing human CD40 antigen, comprising administering theantibody or antigen-binding fragment of the invention to the cells,which antibody or antigen-binding fragment specifically binds to thehuman cell surface CD40 antigen, wherein the binding of the antibody orantigen-binding fragment to the CD40 antigen inhibits the growth ordifferentiation of the cells.

Also contemplated is a method of treating a subject having aCD40-associated disorder, comprising administering to the subject theantibody or antigen-binding fragment of the invention, which antibody orantigen-binding fragment specifically binds to human CD40, wherein thebinding of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment to CD40 inhibits thegrowth or differentiation of cells of the CD40-associated disorder. Thecells may be but are not limited to B lymphoblastoid cells, pancreatic,lung cells, breast cells, ovarian cells, colon cells, prostate cells,skin cells, head and neck cells, bladder cells, bone cells or kidneycells.

The treatment method for inhibiting growth or differentiation of cellsmay be useful in the treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia,Burkitt's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, a T cell lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin'sLymphoma, Hodgkin's Disease, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia or Kaposi'ssarcoma.

Also contemplated is a method for inducing depletion of peripheral Bcells, comprising administering to the cells the antibody orantigen-binding fragment of the invention, which antibody orantigen-binding fragment specifically binds to a human cell surface CD40antigen, wherein the binding of the antibody or antigen-binding fragmentto the CD40 antigen induces depletion of the cells.

In specific embodiments, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment isadministered to a subject having an immune disorder. For example, theimmune disorder is rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Also contemplated is a method of treating rheumatoid arthritis in asubject comprising administering to said subject an antibody of theinvention, wherein said antibody is an antagonistic antibody that blocksthe function of CD40 in said subject.

Preferably, the antibody is administered in an amount effective toinhibit B cell differentiation and antibody isotype switching in saidsubject.

In other embodiments, the antibody is administered in an amounteffective to inhibit cytokine and chemokine production and up-regulationof adhesion molecules in T-cells and macrophages in said subject.Preferably, the antibody is administered in an amount effective toinhibit activation of dendritic cells in said subject.

In other embodiments, the method is further characterized in that theantibody is administered in an amount effective to inhibit production ofproinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases,prostaglandins, and down-regulate adhesion molecules in non-immune cellsin said subject.

In specific embodiments, the antibody is administered in combinationwith a regimen comprising methotrexate administration and/oradministration of Enbrel/Humira.

The subject for receiving the therapy is one that has rheumatoidarthritis and has been non-responsive to methotrexate treatment alone.

In specific embodiments, the method comprises treating said subject witha regimen comprising methotrexate administration and/or administrationof Enbrel/Humira.

The method of the invention may be further characterized whereintreatment of said subject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody hasa superior efficacy to treatment with methotrexate alone, Enbrel alone,a combination of Enbrel+methotrexate.

The method of the invention may be further characterized whereintreatment of said subject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody hasa superior efficacy to treatment with Enbrel+MTX in patients who havehad an inadequate response to methotrexate.

In specific embodiments, the antibody is administered in combinationwith a regimen comprising an anti-TNF agent.

In specific embodiments, subject is characterized as one who hasrheumatoid arthritis and has been non-responsive to treatment with ananti-TNF agent alone. In such embodiments, the method may comprisetreating said subject with a regimen comprising treatment with ananti-TNF agent in combination with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody.

In specific embodiments, the treatment of said subject with saidantagonistic anti-CD40 antibody has a superior efficacy to treatmentwith an anti-TNF agent.

In still other embodiments, the method is characterized in that thetreatment of said subject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody hasa superior efficacy to treatment with Orencia or Rituxan in patients whohave had an inadequate response to an anti-TNF agent alone.

The present invention further contemplates a pharmaceutical compositioncomprising: (i) the antibody or antigen-binding fragment as describedherein; and (ii) a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. In suchcompositions, the antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof mayadvantageously be conjugated to a second agent, such as for example, acytotoxic agent, a PEG-carrier, an enzyme or a marker.

Also contemplated herein is an isolated polynucleotide encoding a heavychain variable region amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4,SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32,SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38,SEQ ID NO:39, SEQ ID NO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 44, SEQ ID NO:46, SEQ ID NO: 48, SEQ ID. NO. 50, SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQ ID NO: 57, SEQ IDNO: 58, SEQ ID NO: 59, SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61, SEQ ID NO: 62, SEQID NO: 63, SEQ ID NO: 64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO: 67,SEQ ID NO: 68, SEQ ID NO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ ID NO: 71, SEQ ID NO:72, or SEQ ID NO: 73.

Also contemplated herein is an isolated polynucleotide encoding a lightchain variable region amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 5 to SEQID NO:8, SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ IDNO:43, SEQ ID NO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ IDNO:51, SEQ ID NO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:55, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ IDNO:74, SEQ ID NO:75, or SEQ ID NO:76.

The invention further relates to the use of the antibodies describedherein for the manufacture of a medicament for blocking the function ofhuman CD40 in a mammal wherein the medicament blocks a CD40 mediatedimmune response in said mammal.

In an embodiment the invention relates to the manufacture of amedicament for treating or ameliorating graft vs host disease in amammal.

In exemplary embodiments, the medicament is manufactured for thetreatment of an autoimmune or inflammatory disease selected from thegroup consisting of rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis,proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis, inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), psoriasis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), Crohn'sDisease and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Hashimoto's thyroiditis,primary myxoedema, thyrotoxicosis/Graves disease, pernicious anaemia,autoimmune atrophic gastritis, autoimmune carditis, Addison's disease,premature menopause, type 1-diabetes mellitus, Good pasture's syndrome,myasthenia gravis, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, idiopathic leucopenia,primary biliary cirrhosis, active chronic hepatitis (HBs Ag negative),cryptogenic cirrhosis, Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, scleroderma,mixed tissues connective disease, discoid lupus erythematosus, andsystemic vasculitis.

In some embodiments, the medicament may further comprise a secondtherapeutic agent selected from the group consisting of aTNF-antagonist, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, aCTLA4-antagonist, an anti-IL-6 receptor mAb and an anti-CD20 mAb.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in a parenteral route ofadministration. The medicament may be manufactured for use intravenouslyor subcutaneously.

Another embodiment contemplates a use of the antibodies described hereinfor the manufacture of a medicament for the inhibition of antibodyproduction by B cells in a human patient.

Another embodiment contemplates a use of the antibodies described hereinfor the manufacture of a medicament for inhibiting the growth and/ordifferentiation of cells expressing human CD40 antigen.

Another embodiment contemplates a use of the antibodies described hereinfor the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a subjecthaving a CD40-associated disorder wherein the binding of the antibody orantigen-binding fragment in said medicament to CD40 inhibits the growthor differentiation of cells of the CD40-associated disorder.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in the treatment of cells ofa CD40-associated disorder selected from B lymphoblastoid cells,pancreatic, lung cells, breast cells, ovarian cells, colon cells,prostate cells, skin cells, head and neck cells, bladder cells, bonecells or kidney cells.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in the treatment of chroniclymphocytic leukemia, Burkitt's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, a T celllymphoma, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Hodgkin's Disease, Waldenstrom'smacroglobulinemia or Kaposi's sarcoma.

Another embodiment contemplates a use of antibodies of the invention inthe manufacture of a medicament for inducing depletion of peripheral Bcells wherein the antibody or antigen-binding fragment of the medicamentspecifically binds to a human cell surface CD40 antigen, wherein thebinding of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment to the CD40 antigeninduces depletion of the cells.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in the treatment of a subjecthaving an immune disorder.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in the treatment ofrheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Another embodiment contemplates a use of antibodies of the invention inthe manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of rheumatoidarthritis in a subject.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in inhibition of B celldifferentiation and antibody isotype switching in said subject.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in inhibition of cytokine andchemokine production and up-regulation of adhesion molecules in T-cellsand macrophages in said subject.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in inhibition of activationof dendritic cells in said subject.

The medicament may be manufactured for use in inhibition of productionof proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases,prostaglandins, and down-regulation of adhesion molecules in non-immunecells in said subject.

In certain embodiments, the medicament is manufactured as a combinationmedicament to be administered in combination with a regimen comprisingmethotrexate administration and/or administration of Enbrel/Humira.

In other embodiments, the medicament is manufactured as a combinationmedicament and the medicament in addition to comprising the antibodiesof the invention further comprises an anti-TNF agent.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B: FIG. 1A. Binding curves and corresponding EC50 valuesof humanized antibodies on CD40 transfected HEK-293 cells measured byflow cytometry. Antibody B (●=10E2-1 Data, ▴=hIgG1KO Data), Antibody A(●=20E2-12 Data, ▴=hIgG1KO Data), 19B10 (●=19B10-2H11-94-k Data,▴=hIgG1KO Data), 10F2 (●=10F2-4G-1k Data, ▴=hIgG1KO Data), Antibody C(●=2H11-159-94 Data, ▴=hIgG1KO Data). FIG. 1B. Comparison of binding ofAntibody A, Antibody B and Antibody C to CD40 transfected HEK cellsmeasured by flow cytometry. Representative data for one experiment isshown.

FIG. 2: Binding curves and corresponding EC50 values of humanizedantibodies on RAMOS cells measured by flow cytometry. Representativedata for one experiment is shown.

FIGS. 3A and 3B: Testing of mouse and humanized antibodies forantagonistic activity in a human primary B cell proliferation assay.FIG. 3A shows representative antibody titration curves and resultingIC50 values is depicted for each mouse precursor antibody.Representative data for one donor is shown. FIG. 3B shows and overlay ofinhibition curves depicting antagonism of various humanized anti-CD40antibodies in comparison to 4D11.

FIG. 4: Summary of the results of testing the humanized antibodies forantagonistic (IC50) and agonistic (SI=stimulation index) activity in ahuman primary B cell proliferation assay. Various anti-CD40 antibodies,4D11, G28.5 and 5D12, are shown for comparison.

FIG. 5: Testing of Antibody B, Antibody A and Antibody C for inhibitionof CD40 induced CD86-up-regulation of human whole blood assays. The 4D11anti-CD40 antibody is shown for comparison. The IgG1 isotype controlshowed no effects in this assay. Representative data for one donor isshown.

FIG. 6: Summary of the results of testing of Antibody B for inhibitionof CD40 induced CD86-up-regulation on human purified B cells and humanwhole blood. The data at both the (A) IC50 and (B) IC90 points aredepicted. The IgG1 isotype control showed no effects in either assay.Data for multiple donors (n=4-5) are summarized in the table

FIG. 7: Testing of Antibody B, Antibody A and Antibody C for inhibitionof CD40 induced CD86 up-regulation in cynomolgus monkey whole bloodassays. The IgG1 isotype control showed no effect in this assay.Representative data for one donor is shown.

FIG. 8: Plasma concentration time curves for Antibody A (left panel) andAntibody B (right panel) in cynomolgus monkey following administrationof 1 and 10 mg/kg of each antibody. The data is the summary ofadministration into 3 animals for each antibody.

FIGS. 9A and 9B: Change of percentage of CD86-positive B cells fromcynomolgus monkeys prior to administration of (Antibody B) and (AntibodyA) and at 3 time points after treatment with each antibody. Antibody B(FIG. 9A) and Antibody A (FIG. 9B) were administered to 3 animals eachwith 1 mg/kg (left panels) or 10 mg/kg (right panels).

FIG. 10: (A) Human IgG and (B) human IgM levels in NSG mice at 2 weeksafter injection of 1.25×10⁶ human PBMC. Mice were treated with vehicle,an isotype control and antibodies Antibody A, Antibody B and Antibody Cat a dose of 1 mg/kg one day before transfer of human PBMC

FIG. 11: Binding of various mouse anti-human CD40 antibodies to humanplatelets.

FIG. 12: Summary of the results of the binding comparison of Antibody Bto the anti-CD40 mAb 4D11 on human B cells and platelets in whole blood

FIG. 13: ADCC activity with wild-type and knock-out IgG1 constructs

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

CD40 mediated signalling is now recognized as being involved in avariety of target disorders. Despite the availability of a variety ofpreclinical data showing that intervention in these disorders would betherapeutically beneficial, there remains a need for antagonisticanti-CD40 antibodies that can be used in the treatment of autoimmunediseases. The present invention in preferred embodiments relates tohumanized antibodies that recognize CD40. In specific embodiments, thesequence of these humanized antibodies has been identified based on thesequences of certain lead mouse antibodies.

The terms “CD40” and “CD40 surface antigen” refer to an approximately 48kD glycoprotein expressed on the surface of normal and neoplastic Bcells, which acts as a receptor for signals involved in cellularproliferation and differentiation (Ledbetter et al., 1987, J. Immunol.138:788-785). A cDNA molecule encoding CD40 has been isolated from alibrary prepared from the Burkitt lymphoma cell line Raji (Stamenkovicet al., 1989, EMBO J. 8:1403).

As used herein, a cell that endogenously expresses CD40 is any cellcharacterized by the surface expression of CD40, including, but notlimited to, normal and neoplastic B cells, interdigitating cells, basalepithelial cells, carcinoma cells, macrophages, endothelial cells,follicular dendritic cells, tonsil cells, and bone marrow-derived plasmacells. In some embodiments, the CD40 molecule is a human CD40 molecule.

The antibodies of the invention specifically bind to human recombinantand native CD40. A humanized monoclonal antibody wherein said antibodyspecifically binds to human CD40 having an antagonistic activity IC50 ofless than 1 nM and has no agonism up to 100 μg/ml in B cellproliferation and wherein said antibody is further characterized in thatthe antibody has an in vivo half life in non-human primates that is atleast 10 days.

Preferably antibody specifically binds to CD40 in CD40-Fc conjugate withan EC50 of less than 1 nM and CD40 in CD40 expressing cells with an EC50of less than 2.5 nM. The antagonistic properties of the antibody aredefined in that it has a B cells or dendritic cell antagonistic activityIC50 of less than 1 nM. The antibody further has superiorpharmacokinetic properties having an increased in vivo half life ascompared to other anti-CD40 antibodies (e.g., anti-CD40 antibody 4D11).

As used herein, a cell that expresses CD40 is any cell characterized bythe surface expression of CD40, including, but not limited to, normaland neoplastic B cells, interdigitating cells, basal epithelial cells,carcinoma cells, macrophages, endothelial cells, follicular dendriticcells, tonsil cells, and bone marrow-derived plasma cells. In someembodiments, the CD40 molecule is a human CD40 molecule.

The antibodies of the present invention recognize specific “CD40 antigenepitope” and “CD40 epitope”. As used herein these terms refer to amolecule (e.g., a peptide) or a fragment of a molecule capable ofimmunoreactivity with an anti-CD40 antibody and, for example, include aCD40 antigenic determinant recognized by the any of the antibodieshaving a heavy chain/light chain sequence combination of light chain SEQID NO. 26 with any of heavy chain SEQ ID NOs: 27, 28, 29 or 30; or lightchain SEQ ID NO: 31 with any of heavy chain SEQ ID NOs 32, 33, 34 or 35;or light chain SEQ ID NO 36 with any of heavy chain SEQ ID NOs 37, 38,39 or 40. CD40 antigen epitopes can be included in proteins, proteinfragments, peptides or the like. The epitopes are most commonlyproteins, short oligopeptides, oligopeptide mimics (i.e., organiccompounds that mimic antibody binding properties of the CD40 antigen),or combinations thereof.

The generalized structure of antibodies or immunoglobulin is well knownto those of skill in the art, these molecules are heterotetramericglycoproteins, typically of about 150,000 daltons, composed of twoidentical light (L) chains and two identical heavy (H) chains. Eachlight chain is covalently linked to a heavy chain by one disulfide bondto form a heterodimer, and the heterotrimeric molecule is formed througha covalent disulfide linkage between the two identical heavy chains ofthe heterodimers. Although the light and heavy chains are linkedtogether by one disulfide bond, the number of disulfide linkages betweenthe two heavy chains varies by immunoglobulin isotype. Each heavy andlight chain also has regularly spaced intrachain disulfide bridges. Eachheavy chain has at the amino-terminus a variable domain (V_(H)),followed by three or four constant domains (C_(H1), C_(H2), C_(H3), andC_(H4)), as well as a hinge region between C_(H1) and C_(H2). Each lightchain has two domains, an amino-terminal variable domain (V_(L)) and acarboxy-terminal constant domain (C_(L)). The V_(L) domain associatesnon-covalently with the V_(H) domain, whereas the C_(L) domain iscommonly covalently linked to the C_(H1) domain via a disulfide bond.Particular amino acid residues are believed to form an interface betweenthe light and heavy chain variable domains (Chothia et al., 1985, J.Mol. Biol. 186:651-663.)

Certain domains within the variable domains differ extensively betweendifferent antibodies i.e., are “hypervariable.” These hypervariabledomains contain residues that are directly involved in the binding andspecificity of each particular antibody for its specific antigenicdeterminant. Hypervariability, both in the light chain and the heavychain variable domains, is concentrated in three segments known ascomplementarity determining regions (CDRs) or hypervariable loops(HVLs). CDRs are defined by sequence comparison in Kabat et al., 1991,In: Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, 5^(th) Ed. PublicHealth Service, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md., whereasHVLs are structurally defined according to the three-dimensionalstructure of the variable domain, as described by Chothia and Lesk,1987, J. Mol. Biol. 196: 901-917. Where these two methods result inslightly different identifications of a CDR, the structural definitionis preferred. As defined by Kabat, CDR-L1 is positioned at aboutresidues 24-34, CDR-L2, at about residues 50-56, and CDR-L3, at aboutresidues 89-97 in the light chain variable domain; CDR-H1 is positionedat about residues 31-35, CDR-H2 at about residues 50-65, and CDR-H3 atabout residues 95-102 in the heavy chain variable domain. The CDR1,CDR2, CDR3 of the heavy and light chains therefore define the unique andfunctional properties specific for a given antibody.

The three CDRs within each of the heavy and light chains are separatedby framework regions (FR), which contain sequences that tend to be lessvariable. From the amino terminus to the carboxy terminus of the heavyand light chain variable domains, the FRs and CDRs are arranged in theorder: FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3, and FR4. The largely β-sheetconfiguration of the FRs brings the CDRs within each of the chains intoclose proximity to each other as well as to the CDRs from the otherchain. The resulting conformation contributes to the antigen bindingsite (see Kabat et al., 1991, NIH Publ. No. 91-3242, Vol. I, pages647-669), although not all CDR residues are necessarily directlyinvolved in antigen binding.

FR residues and Ig constant domains are not directly involved in antigenbinding, but contribute to antigen binding and/or mediate antibodyeffector function. Some FR residues are thought to have a significanteffect on antigen binding in at least three ways: by noncovalentlybinding directly to an epitope, by interacting with one or more CDRresidues, and by affecting the interface between the heavy and lightchains. The constant domains are not directly involved in antigenbinding but mediate various Ig effector functions, such as participationof the antibody in antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC),complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and antibody dependent cellularphagocytosis (ADCP).

The light chains of vertebrate immunoglobulins are assigned to one oftwo clearly distinct classes, kappa (κ) and lambda (λ), based on theamino acid sequence of the constant domain. By comparison, the heavychains of mammalian immunoglobulins are assigned to one of five majorclasses, according to the sequence of the constant domains: IgA, IgD,IgE, IgG, and IgM. IgG and IgA are further divided into subclasses(isotypes), e.g., IgG₁, IgG₂, IgG₃, IgG₄, IgA₁, and IgA₂. The heavychain constant domains that correspond to the different classes ofimmunoglobulins are called α, δ, ε, γ, and μ, respectively. The subunitstructures and three-dimensional configurations of the classes of nativeimmunoglobulins are well known.

The terms, “antibody”, “anti-CD40 antibody”, “humanized anti-CD40antibody”, and “variant humanized anti-CD40 antibody” are used herein inthe broadest sense and specifically encompass monoclonal antibodies(including full length monoclonal antibodies), polyclonal antibodies,multispecific antibodies (e.g., bispecific antibodies), and antibodyfragments such as variable domains and other portions of antibodies thatexhibit a desired biological activity, e.g., CD40 binding.

The term “monoclonal antibody” (mAb) refers to an antibody of apopulation of substantially homogeneous antibodies; that is, theindividual antibodies in that population are identical except fornaturally occurring mutations that may be present in minor amounts.Monoclonal antibodies are highly specific, being directed against asingle antigenic determinant, an “epitope”. Therefore, the modifier“monoclonal” is indicative of a substantially homogeneous population ofantibodies directed to the identical epitope and is not to be construedas requiring production of the antibody by any particular method. Itshould be understood that monoclonal antibodies can be made by anytechnique or methodology known in the art; including e.g., the hybridomamethod (Kohler et al., 1975, Nature 256:495), or recombinant DNA methodsknown in the art (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,567), or methods ofisolation of monoclonal recombinantly produced using phage antibodylibraries, using techniques described in Clackson et al., 1991, Nature352: 624-628, and Marks et al., 1991, J. Mol. Biol. 222: 581-597.

Chimeric antibodies consist of the heavy and light chain variableregions of an antibody from one species (e.g., a non-human mammal suchas a mouse) and the heavy and light chain constant regions of anotherspecies (e.g., human) antibody and can be obtained by linking the DNAsequences encoding the variable regions of the antibody from the firstspecies (e.g., mouse) to the DNA sequences for the constant regions ofthe antibody from the second (e.g. human) species and transforming ahost with an expression vector containing the linked sequences to allowit to produce a chimeric antibody. Alternatively, the chimeric antibodyalso could be one in which one or more regions or domains of the heavyand/or light chain is identical with, homologous to, or a variant of thecorresponding sequence in a monoclonal antibody from anotherimmunoglobulin class or isotype, or from a consensus or germ linesequence. Chimeric antibodies can include fragments of such antibodies,provided that the antibody fragment exhibits the desired biologicalactivity of its parent antibody, for example binding to the same epitope(see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,567; and Morrison et al., 1984, Proc.Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 81: 6851-6855).

The terms, “antibody fragment”, “anti-CD40 antibody fragment”,“humanized anti-CD40 antibody fragment”, “variant humanized anti-CD40antibody fragment” refer to a portion of a full length anti-CD40antibody, in which a variable region or a functional capability isretained, for example, specific CD40 epitope binding. Examples ofantibody fragments include, but are not limited to, a Fab, Fab′,F(ab′)₂, Fd, Fv, scFv and scFv-Fc fragment, a diabody, a linearantibody, a single-chain antibody, a minibody, a diabody formed fromantibody fragments, and multispecific antibodies formed from antibodyfragments.

Full length antibodies can be treated with enzymes such as papain orpepsin to generate useful antibody fragments. Papain digestion is usedto produces two identical antigen-binding antibody fragments called“Fab” fragments, each with a single antigen-binding site, and a residual“Fc” fragment. The Fab fragment also contains the constant domain of thelight chain and the C_(H1) domain of the heavy chain. Pepsin treatmentyields a F(ab′)₂ fragment that has two antigen-binding sites and isstill capable of cross-linking antigen.

Fab′ fragments differ from Fab fragments by the presence of additionalresidues including one or more cysteines from the antibody hinge regionat the C-terminus of the C_(H1) domain. F(ab′)₂ antibody fragments arepairs of Fab′ fragments linked by cysteine residues in the hinge region.Other chemical couplings of antibody fragments are also known.

“Fv” fragment is contains a complete antigen-recognition and bindingsite consisting of a dimer of one heavy and one light chain variabledomain in tight, non-covalent association. In this configuration, thethree CDRs of each variable domain interact to define an antigen-bidingsite on the surface of the V_(H)-V_(L) dimer. Collectively, the six CDRsconfer antigen-binding specificity to the antibody.

A “single-chain Fv” or “scFv” antibody fragment is a single chain Fvvariant comprising the V_(H) and V_(L) domains of an antibody where thedomains are present in a single polypeptide chain. The single chain Fvis capable of recognizing and binding antigen. The scFv polypeptide mayoptionally also contain a polypeptide linker positioned between theV_(H) and V_(L) domains in order to facilitate formation of a desiredthree-dimensional structure for antigen binding by the scFv (see, e.g.,Pluckthun, 1994, In The Pharmacology of monoclonal Antibodies, Vol. 113,Rosenburg and Moore eds., Springer-Verlag, New York, pp. 269-315).

Other recognized antibody fragments include those that comprise a pairof tandem Fd segments (V_(H)-C_(H1)-V_(H)-C_(H1)) to form a pair ofantigen binding regions. These “linear antibodies” can be bispecific ormonospecific as described in, for example, Zapata et al. 1995, ProteinEng. 8(10):1057-1062.

A humanized antibody or a humanized antibody fragment is a specific typeof chimeric antibody which includes an immunoglobulin amino acidsequence variant, or fragment thereof, which is capable of binding to apredetermined antigen and which, comprises one or more FRs havingsubstantially the amino acid sequence of a human immunoglobulin and oneor more CDRs having substantially the amino acid sequence of a non-humanimmunoglobulin. This non-human amino acid sequence often referred to asan “import” sequence is typically taken from an “import” antibodydomain, particularly a variable domain. In general, a humanized antibodyincludes at least the CDRs or HVLs of a non-human antibody, insertedbetween the FRs of a human heavy or light chain variable domain. Thepresent invention describes specific humanized anti-CD40 antibodieswhich contain CDRs derived from the murine monoclonal antibodies shownin Tables 3 and 4 inserted between the FRs of human germline sequenceheavy and light chain variable domains. It will be understood thatcertain murine FR residues may be important to the function of thehumanized antibodies and therefore certain of the human germlinesequence heavy and light chain variable domains residues are modified tobe the same as those of the corresponding murine sequence.

In another aspect, a humanized anti-CD40 antibody comprisessubstantially all of at least one, and typically two, variable domains(such as contained, for example, in Fab, Fab′, F(ab′)2, Fabc, and Fvfragments) in which all, or substantially all, of the CDRs correspond tothose of a non-human immunoglobulin, and specifically herein, all of theCDRs are murine sequences as detailed in Tables 1 through 4 herein belowand all, or substantially all, of the FRs are those of a humanimmunoglobulin consensus or germline sequence. In another aspect, ahumanized anti-CD40 antibody also includes at least a portion of animmunoglobulin Fc region, typically that of a human immunoglobulin.Ordinarily, the antibody will contain both the light chain as well as atleast the variable domain of a heavy chain. The antibody also mayinclude one or more of the C_(H1), hinge, C_(H2), C_(H3), and/or C_(H4)regions of the heavy chain, as appropriate.

A humanized anti-CD40 antibody can be selected from any class ofimmunoglobulins, including IgM, IgG, IgD, IgA and IgE, and any isotype,including IgG₁, IgG₂, IgG₃, IgG₄, IgA₁ and IgA₂. For example, theconstant domain can be a complement fixing constant domain where it isdesired that the humanized antibody exhibit cytotoxic activity, and theisotype is typically IgG₁. Where such cytotoxic activity is notdesirable, the constant domain may be of another isotype, e.g., IgG₂. Analternative humanized anti-CD40 antibody can comprise sequences frommore than one immunoglobulin class or isotype, and selecting particularconstant domains to optimize desired effector functions is within theordinary skill in the art. In specific embodiments, the presentinvention provides antibodies that are IgG1 antibodies and moreparticularly, are IgG1 antibodies in which there is a knock-out ofeffector functions.

The FRs and CDRs, or HVLs, of a humanized anti-CD40 antibody need notcorrespond precisely to the parental sequences. For example, one or moreresidues in the import CDR, or HVL, or the consensus or germline FRsequence may be altered (e.g., mutagenized) by substitution, insertionor deletion such that the resulting amino acid residue is no longeridentical to the original residue in the corresponding position ineither parental sequence but the antibody nevertheless retains thefunction of binding to CD40. Such alteration typically will not beextensive and will be conservative alterations. Usually, at least 75% ofthe humanized antibody residues will correspond to those of the parentalconsensus or germ line FR and import CDR sequences, more often at least90%, and most frequently greater than 95%, or greater than 98% orgreater than 99%.

Immunoglobulin residues that affect the interface between heavy andlight chain variable regions (“the V_(L)-V_(H) interface”) are thosethat affect the proximity or orientation of the two chains with respectto one another. Certain residues that may be involved in interchaininteractions include V_(L) residues 34, 36, 38, 44, 46, 87, 89, 91, 96,and 98 and V_(H) residues 35, 37, 39, 45, 47, 91, 93, 95, 100, and 103(utilizing the numbering system set forth in Kabat et al., Sequences ofProteins of Immunological Interest (National Institutes of Health,Bethesda, Md., 1987)). U.S. Pat. No. 6,407,213 also discusses thatresidues such as V_(L) residues 43 and 85, and V_(H) residues 43 and 60also may be involved in this interaction. While these residues areindicated for human IgG only, they are applicable across species.Important antibody residues that are reasonably expected to be involvedin interchain interactions are selected for substitution into theconsensus sequence.

The terms “consensus sequence” and “consensus antibody” refer to anamino acid sequence which comprises the most frequently occurring aminoacid residue at each location in all immunoglobulins of any particularclass, isotype, or subunit structure, e.g., a human immunoglobulinvariable domain. The consensus sequence may be based on immunoglobulinsof a particular species or of many species. A “consensus” sequence,structure, or antibody is understood to encompass a consensus humansequence as described in certain embodiments, and to refer to an aminoacid sequence which comprises the most frequently occurring amino acidresidues at each location in all human immunoglobulins of any particularclass, isotype, or subunit structure. Thus, the consensus sequencecontains an amino acid sequence having at each position an amino acidthat is present in one or more known immunoglobulins, but which may notexactly duplicate the entire amino acid sequence of any singleimmunoglobulin. The variable region consensus sequence is not obtainedfrom any naturally produced antibody or immunoglobulin. Kabat et al.,1991, Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, 5th Ed. PublicHealth Service, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md., andvariants thereof. The FRs of heavy and light chain consensus sequences,and variants thereof, provide useful sequences for the preparation ofhumanized anti-CD40 antibodies. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos.6,037,454 and 6,054,297.

Human germline sequences are found naturally in human population. Acombination of those germline genes generates antibody diversity.Germline antibody sequences for the light chain of the antibody comefrom conserved human germline kappa or lambda v-genes and j-genes.Similarly the heavy chain sequences come from germline v-, d- andj-genes (LeFranc, M P, and LeFranc, G, “The Immunoglobulin Facts Book”Academic Press, 2001).

As used herein, “variant”, “anti-CD40 variant”, “humanized anti-CD40variant”, or “variant humanized anti-CD40” each refers to a humanizedanti-CD40 antibody having at least a heavy chain variable murine CDRfrom any of the sequences of SEQ ID NO: 1 through 4 or a light chainmurine CDR sequence derived from the murine monoclonal antibody as shownin any of SEQ ID NO:5 through SEQ ID NO:8 and FR sequences derived fromhuman consensus sequences. Variants include those having one or moreamino acid changes in one or both light chain or heavy chain variabledomains, provided that the amino acid change does not substantiallyimpair binding of the antibody to CD40. Exemplary humanized antibodiesproduced herein include those designated as Antibody A, Antibody B andAntibody C and the various heavy and light chain sequences of the sameare shown in SEQ ID NOs 26 through SEQ ID NO:40.

An “isolated” antibody is one that has been identified and separatedand/or recovered from a component of its natural environment.Contaminant components of the antibody's natural environment are thosematerials that may interfere with diagnostic or therapeutic uses of theantibody, and can be enzymes, hormones, or other proteinaceous ornonproteinaceous solutes. In one aspect, the antibody will be purifiedto at least greater than 95% isolation by weight of antibody.

An isolated antibody includes an antibody in situ within recombinantcells in which it is produced, since at least one component of theantibody's natural environment will not be present. Ordinarily however,an isolated antibody will be prepared by at least one purification stepin which the recombinant cellular material is removed.

The term “antibody performance” refers to factors that contribute toantibody recognition of antigen or the effectiveness of an antibody invivo. Changes in the amino acid sequence of an antibody can affectantibody properties such as folding, and can influence physical factorssuch as initial rate of antibody binding to antigen (k_(a)),dissociation constant of the antibody from antigen (k_(d)), affinityconstant of the antibody for the antigen (Kd), conformation of theantibody, protein stability, and half life of the antibody.

The term “epitope tagged” when used herein, refers to an anti-CD40antibody fused to an “epitope tag”. An “epitope tag” is a polypeptidehaving a sufficient number of amino acids to provide an epitope forantibody production, yet is designed such that it does not interferewith the desired activity of the humanized anti-CD40 antibody. Theepitope tag is usually sufficiently unique such that an antibody raisedagainst the epitope tag does not substantially cross-react with otherepitopes. Suitable tag polypeptides generally contain at least 6 aminoacid residues and usually contain about 8 to 50 amino acid residues, orabout 9 to 30 residues. Examples of epitope tags and the antibody thatbinds the epitope include the flu HA tag polypeptide and its antibody12CA5 (Field et al., 1988 Mol. Cell. Biol. 8: 2159-2165; c-myc tag and8F9, 3C7, 6E10, G4, B7 and 9E10 antibodies thereto (Evan et al., 1985,Mol. Cell. Biol. 5(12):3610-3616; and Herpes simplex virus glycoproteinD (gD) tag and its antibody (Paborsky et al. 1990, Protein Engineering3(6): 547-553). In certain embodiments, the epitope tag is a “salvagereceptor binding epitope”. As used herein, the term “salvage receptorbinding epitope” refers to an epitope of the Fc region of an IgGmolecule (such as IgG₁, IgG₂, IgG₃, or IgG₄) that is responsible forincreasing the in vivo serum half-life of the IgG molecule.

In some embodiments, the antibodies of the present invention may beconjugated to a cytotoxic agent. This is any substance that inhibits orprevents the function of cells and/or causes destruction of cells. Theterm is intended to include radioactive isotopes (such as I¹³¹, I¹²⁵,Y⁹⁰, and Re¹⁸⁶), chemotherapeutic agents, and toxins such asenzymatically active toxins of bacterial, fungal, plant, or animalorigin, and fragments thereof. Such cytotoxic agents can be coupled tothe humanized antibodies of the present invention using standardprocedures, and used, for example, to treat a patient indicated fortherapy with the antibody.

A “chemotherapeutic agent” is a chemical compound useful in thetreatment of cancer. There are numerous examples of chemotherapeuticagents that could be conjugated with the therapeutic antibodies of thepresent invention. Examples of such chemotherapeutic agents includealkylating agents such a thiotepa and cyclosphosphamide; alkylsulfonates such as busulfan, improsulfan, and piposulfan; aziridinessuch as benzodopa, carboquone, meturedopa, and uredopa; ethyleniminesand methylamelamines including altretamine, triethylenemelamine,trietylenephosphoramide, triethiylenethiophosphoramide, andtrimethylolomelamine; acetogenins (especially bullatacin andbullatacinone); camptothecin (including the synthetic analoguetopotecan); bryostatin; callystatin; CC-1065 (including its adozelesin,carzelesin, and bizelesin synthetic analogues); cryptophycines(particularly cryptophycin 1 and cryptophycin 8); dolastatin,auristatins, (including analogues monomethyl-auristatin E andmonomethyl-auristatin F); duocarmycin (including the syntheticanalogues, KW-2189 and CBI-TMI); eleutherobin; pancratistatin;sarcodictyin; spongistatin; nitrogen mustards such as chlorambucil,chlomaphazine, cholophosphamide, estramustine, ifosfamide,mechlorethamine, mechlorethamine oxide hydrochloride, melphalan,novembichin, phenesterine, prednimustine; trofosfamide, uracil mustard;nitrosureas such as carmustine, chlorozotocin, fotemustine, lomustine,nimustine, ranimustine; antibiotics such as the enediyne antibiotics(e.g., calicheamicin, especially calichemicin gamma1I and calicheamicinphil1, see for example, Agnew, Chem. Intl. Ed. Engl., 33:183-186;dynemicin, including dynemicin A; bisphosphonates, such as clodronate;esperamicin; as well as neocarzinostatin chromophore and relatedchromoprotein enediyne antibiotic chromophores), aclacinomysins,actinomycin, authramycin, azaserine, bleomycins, cactinomycin,carabicin, caminomycin, carzinophilin, chromomycins, dactinomycin,daunorubicin, detorubicin, 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine, doxorubicin(Adriamycin™) (including morpholino-doxorubicin,cyanomorpholino-doxorubicin, 2-pyrrolino-doxorubicin, anddeoxydoxorubicin), epirubicin, esorubicin, idarubicin, marcellomycin,mitomycins such as mitomycin C, mycophenolic acid, nogalamycin,olivomycins, peplomycin, potfiromycin, puromycine, quelamycin,rodorubicin, streptonigrin, streptozocin, tubercidin, ubenimex,zinostatin, zorubicin; anti-metabolites such a methotrexate and5-fluorouracil (5-FU); folic acid analogues such as denopterin,methotrexate, pteropterin, trimetrexate; purine analogs such asfludarabine, 6-mercaptopurine, thiamiprine, thioguanine; pyrimidineanalogs such as ancitabine, azacitidine, 6-azauridine, carmofur,cytarabine, dideoxyuridine, doxifluridine, enocitabine, floxuridine;androgens such as calusterone, dromostanolone propionate, epitiostanol,mepitiostane, testolactone; anti-adrenals such as aminoglutethimide,mitotane, trilostane; folic acid replenisher such as frolinic acid;aceglatone; aldophosphamide glycoside; aminolevulinic acid; eniluracil;amsacrine; bestrabucil; bisantrene; edatraxate; defofamine; demecolcine;diaziquone; elformithine; elliptinium acetate; an epothilone; etoglucid;gallium nitrate; hydroxyurea; lentinan; lonidamine; maytansinoids suchas maytansine and ansamitocins; mitoguazone, mitoxantrone; mopidamol;nitracrine; pentostatin; phenamet; pirarubicin; losoxantrone;podophyllinic acid; 2-ethylhydrazide; procarbazine; PSK®; razoxane;rhizoxin; sizofuran; spirogermanium; tenuazonic acid; triaziquone;2,2′,2″-trichlorotriethylamine; trichothecenes (especially T-2 toxin,verracurin A, roridin A and anguidine); urethan; vindesine; dacarbazine;mannomustine; mitabronitol; mitolactol; pipobroman; gacytosine;arabinoside (“Ara-C”); cyclophosphamide; thiotepa; taxoids, e.g.,paclitaxel (TAXOL®, Bristol-Myers Squibb Oncology, Princeton, N.J.) anddoxetaxel (TAXOTERE®, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, Antony, France);chlorambucil; gemcitabine (Gemzar™); 6-thioguanine; mercaptopurine;methotrexate; platinum analogs such as cisplatin and carboplatin;vinblastine; platinum; etoposide (VP-16); ifosfamide; mitoxantrone;vincristine; vinorelbine Navelbine™); novantrone; teniposide;edatrexate; daunomycin; aminopterin; xeloda; ibandronate; CPT-11;topoisomerase inhibitor RFS 2000; difluoromethylornithine (DMFO);retinoids such as retinoic acid; capecitabine; and pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts, acids, or derivatives of any of the above. Alsoincluded in this definition are anti-hormonal agents that act toregulate or inhibit hormone action on tumors such as anti-estrogens andselective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), including, for example,tamoxifen (including Nolvadex™) raloxifene, droloxifene,4-hydroxytamoxifen, trioxifene, keoxifene, LY117018, onapristone, andtoremifene (Fareston™); aromatase inhibitors that inhibit the enzymearomatase, which regulates estrogen production in the adrenal glands,such as, for example, 4(5)-imidazoles, aminoglutethimide, megestrolacetate (Megace™), exemestane, formestane, fadrozole, vorozole(Rivisor™), letrozole (Femara™), and anastrozole (Arimidex™); andanti-androgens such as flutamide, nilutamide, bicalutamide, leuprolide,and goserelin; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, acids, orderivatives of any of the above. Any one or more of these agents may beconjugated to the humanized antibodies of the present invention toprovide a useful therapeutic agent for the treatment of variousdisorders.

The antibodies also may be conjugated to prodrugs. A “prodrug” is aprecursor or derivative form of a pharmaceutically active substance thatis less cytotoxic to tumor cells compared to the parent drug and iscapable of being enzymatically activated or converted into the moreactive form. See, for example, Wilman, 1986, “Prodrugs in CancerChemotherapy”, In Biochemical Society Transactions, 14, pp. 375-382,615th Meeting Belfast and Stella et al., 1985, “Prodrugs: A ChemicalApproach to Targeted Drug Delivery, In:” Directed Drug Delivery,Borchardt et al., (ed.), pp. 247-267, Humana Press. Useful prodrugsinclude, but are not limited to, phosphate-containing prodrugs,thiophosphate-containing prodrugs, sulfate-containing prodrugspeptide-containing prodrugs, D-amino acid-modified prodrugs,glycosylated prodrugs, β-lactam-containing prodrugs, optionallysubstituted phenoxyacetamide-containing prodrugs, and optionallysubstituted phenylacetamide-containing prodrugs, 5-fluorocytosine andother 5-fluorouridine prodrugs that can be converted into the moreactive cytotoxic free drug. Examples of cytotoxic drugs that can bederivatized into a prodrug form include, but are not limited to, thosechemotherapeutic agents described above.

For diagnostic as well as therapeutic monitoring purposes, theantibodies of the invention also may be conjugated to a label, either alabel alone or a label and an additional second agent (prodrug,chemotherapeutic agent and the like). A label, as distinguished from theother second agents refers to an agent that is a detectable compound orcomposition and it may be conjugated directly or indirectly to ahumanized antibody of the present invention. The label may itself bedetectable (e.g., radioisotope labels or fluorescent labels) or, in thecase of an enzymatic label, may catalyze chemical alteration of asubstrate compound or composition that is detectable. Labeled humanizedanti-CD40 antibody can be prepared and used in various applicationsincluding in vitro and in vivo diagnostics.

The antibodies of the present invention may be formulated as part of aliposomal preparation in order to effect delivery thereof in vivo. A“liposome” is a small vesicle composed of various types of lipids,phospholipids, and/or surfactant. Liposomes are useful for delivery to amammal of a compound or formulation, such as a humanized anti-CD40antibody disclosed herein, optionally, coupled to or in combination withone or more pharmaceutically active agents and/or labels. The componentsof the liposome are commonly arranged in a bilayer formation, similar tothe lipid arrangement of biological membranes.

Certain aspects of the present invention related to isolated nucleicacids that encode one or more domains of the humanized antibodies of thepresent invention. An “isolated” nucleic acid molecule is a nucleic acidmolecule that is identified and separated from at least one contaminantnucleic acid molecule with which it is ordinarily associated in thenatural source of the antibody nucleic acid. An isolated nucleic acidmolecule is distinguished from the nucleic acid molecule as it exists innatural cells.

In various aspects of the present invention one or more domains of thehumanized antibodies will be recombinantly expressed. Such recombinantexpression may employ one or more control sequences, i.e.,polynucleotide sequences necessary for expression of an operably linkedcoding sequence in a particular host organism. The control sequencessuitable for use in prokaryotic cells include, for example, promoter,operator, and ribosome binding site sequences. Eukaryotic controlsequences include, but are not limited to, promoters, polyadenylationsignals, and enhancers. These control sequences can be utilized forexpression and production of humanized anti-CD40 antibody in prokaryoticand eukaryotic host cells.

A nucleic acid sequence is “operably linked” when it is placed into afunctional relationship with another nucleic acid sequence. For example,a nucleic acid presequence or secretory leader is operably linked to anucleic acid encoding a polypeptide if it is expressed as a preproteinthat participates in the secretion of the polypeptide; a promoter orenhancer is operably linked to a coding sequence if it affects thetranscription of the sequence; or a ribosome binding site is operablylinked to a coding sequence if it is positioned so as to facilitatetranslation. Generally, “operably linked” means that the DNA sequencesbeing linked are contiguous, and, in the case of a secretory leader,contiguous and in reading frame. However, enhancers are optionallycontiguous. Linking can be accomplished by ligation at convenientrestriction sites. If such sites do not exist, synthetic oligonucleotideadaptors or linkers can be used.

As used herein, the expressions “cell”, “cell line”, and “cell culture”are used interchangeably and all such designations include the progenythereof. Thus, “transformants” and “transformed cells” include theprimary subject cell and cultures derived therefrom without regard forthe number of transfers.

The term “mammal” for purposes of treatment refers to any animalclassified as a mammal, including humans, domesticated and farm animals,and zoo, sports, or pet animals, such as dogs, horses, cats, cows, andthe like. Preferably, the mammal is human.

A “disorder”, as used herein, is any condition that would benefit fromtreatment with a humanized anti-CD40 antibody described herein. Thisincludes chronic and acute disorders or diseases including thosepathological conditions that predispose the mammal to the disorder inquestion. Non-limiting examples or disorders to be treated hereininclude cancer, hematological malignancies, benign and malignant tumors,leukemias and lymphoid malignancies and inflammatory, angiogenic,autoimmune and immunologic disorders.

The terms “cancer” and “cancerous” refer to or describe thephysiological condition in mammals that is typically characterized byunregulated cell growth. Examples of cancer include, but are not limitedto, carcinoma, lymphoma, blastoma, sarcoma, and leukemia.

As used herein, the term “CD40-associated disorder” or “CD40-associateddisease” refers to a condition in which modification or elimination ofcells expressing CD40 is indicated. These include CD40-expressing cellsdemonstrating abnormal proliferation or CD40-expressing cells that areassociated with cancerous or malignant growth. More particular examplesof cancers that demonstrate abnormal expression of CD40 antigen includeB lymphoblastoid cells, Burkitt's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, T celllymphomas, Kaposi's sarcoma, osteosarcoma, epidermal and endothelialtumors, pancreatic, lung, breast, ovarian, colon, prostate, head andneck, skin (melanoma), bladder, and kidney cancers. Such disordersinclude, but are not limited to, leukemias, lymphomas, including B celllymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom'smacroglobulinemia; solid tumors, including sarcomas, such asosteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, malignant melanoma, adenocarcinoma,including ovarian adenocarcinoma, Kaposi's sarcoma/Kaposi's tumor andsquamous cell carcinoma.

A CD40-associated disorder also includes diseases and disorders of theimmune system, such as autoimmune disorders and inflammatory disorders.Such conditions include, but are not limited to, rheumatoid arthritis(RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, Sjogren'ssyndrome, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease(e.g., ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease), pulmonary inflammation,asthma, and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purara (ITP).

The phrase “arrests the growth of” or “growth inhibitory” when usedherein refers to inhibiting growth or proliferation of a cell,especially a neoplastic cell type expressing the CD40 antigen. Thus,growth inhibition, for example, significantly reduces the percentage ofneoplastic cells in S phase.

The term “intravenous infusion” refers to introduction of an agent intothe vein of an animal or human patient over a period of time greaterthan approximately 15 minutes, generally between approximately 30 to 90minutes.

The term “intravenous bolus” or “intravenous push” refers to drugadministration into a vein of an animal or human such that the bodyreceives the drug in approximately 15 minutes or less, generally 5minutes or less.

The term “subcutaneous administration” refers to introduction of anagent under the skin of an animal or human patient, preferable within apocket between the skin and underlying tissue, by relatively slow,sustained delivery from a drug receptacle. Pinching or drawing the skinup and away from underlying tissue may create the pocket.

The term “subcutaneous infusion” refers to introduction of a drug underthe skin of an animal or human patient, preferably within a pocketbetween the skin and underlying tissue, by relatively slow, sustaineddelivery from a drug receptacle for a period of time including, but notlimited to, 30 minutes or less, or 90 minutes or less. Optionally, theinfusion may be made by subcutaneous implantation of a drug deliverypump implanted under the skin of the animal or human patient, whereinthe pump delivers a predetermined amount of drug for a predeterminedperiod of time, such as 30 minutes, 90 minutes, or a time periodspanning the length of the treatment regimen.

The term “subcutaneous bolus” refers to drug administration beneath theskin of an animal or human patient, where bolus drug delivery is lessthan approximately 15 minutes; in another aspect, less than 5 minutes,and in still another aspect, less than 60 seconds. In yet even anotheraspect, administration is within a pocket between the skin andunderlying tissue, where the pocket may be created by pinching ordrawing the skin up and away from underlying tissue.

The term “therapeutically effective amount” is used to refer to anamount of an active agent that relieves or ameliorates one or more ofthe symptoms of the disorder being treated. In doing so it is thatamount that has a beneficial patient outcome, for example, a growtharrest effect or causes the deletion of the cell. In one aspect, thetherapeutically effective amount has apoptotic activity, or is capableof inducing cell death. In another aspect, the therapeutically effectiveamount refers to a target serum concentration that has been shown to beeffective in, for example, slowing disease progression. Efficacy can bemeasured in conventional ways, depending on the condition to be treated.For example, in neoplastic diseases or disorders characterized by cellsexpressing CD40, efficacy can be measured by assessing the time todisease progression, or determining the response rates.

The terms “treatment” and “therapy” and the like, as used herein, aremeant to include therapeutic as well as prophylactic, or suppressivemeasures for a disease or disorder leading to any clinically desirableor beneficial effect, including but not limited to alleviation or reliefof one or more symptoms, regression, slowing or cessation of progressionof the disease or disorder. Thus, for example, the term treatmentincludes the administration of an agent prior to or following the onsetof a symptom of a disease or disorder thereby preventing or removing oneor more signs of the disease or disorder. As another example, the termincludes the administration of an agent after clinical manifestation ofthe disease to combat the symptoms of the disease. Further,administration of an agent after onset and after clinical symptoms havedeveloped where administration affects clinical parameters of thedisease or disorder, such as the degree of tissue injury or the amountor extent of metastasis, whether or not the treatment leads toamelioration of the disease, comprises “treatment” or “therapy” as usedherein. Moreover, as long as the compositions of the invention eitheralone or in combination with another therapeutic agent alleviate orameliorate at least one symptom of a disorder being treated as comparedto that symptom in the absence of use of the humanized CD40 antibodycomposition, the result should be considered an effective treatment ofthe underlying disorder regardless of whether all the symptoms of thedisorder are alleviated or not.

The term “package insert” is used to refer to instructions customarilyincluded in commercial packages of therapeutic products, that containinformation about the indications, usage, administration,contraindications and/or warnings concerning the use of such therapeuticproducts.

Antibodies

Described and disclosed herein are humanized anti-CD40 antibodies, andcompositions and articles of manufacture comprising one or morehumanized anti-CD40 antibody of the present invention. Also describedare binding agents that include an antigen-binding fragment of ahumanized anti-CD40 antibody. The humanized anti-CD40 antibodies andbinding agents can arrest the growth of cells, cause the deletion ofcells expressing CD40 or otherwise induce or cause a cytotoxic orcytostatic effect on target cells. The humanized anti-CD40 antibodiesand binding agents can be used in the treatment of a variety of diseasesor disorders characterized by the proliferation of cells expressing theCD40 surface antigen. A humanized anti-CD40 antibody and a CD40 bindingagent each includes at least a portion that specifically recognizes aCD40 epitope (i.e., an antigen-binding fragment).

In the initial characterization murine antibodies were selected based onCD40 binding characterization.

From these initial studies, murine antibodies were selected that had thefollowing heavy chain variable regions shown in Table 1 and the lightchain variable regions shown in Table 2:

TABLE 1 CD40 Murine Leads - VH Sequences 2H11EVQLQQSGAELVRPGASVKLSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQRPEKGLEWIGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSSNTAYLHLSSLTSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTLTVSS(SEQ ID NO: 1) 10F2EVQLQQSGAELVRPGASVKLSCTASGFNIKDYYIHWVKQRPEKGLEWIGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGKATMTADTSSNTAYLHLSSLTSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTLTVSS(SEQ ID NO: 2) 19B10EVQLQQSGAELVRPGASVQLSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQRPEKGLEWIGRIDPEDGDTKFAPKFQGKATMTADTSSNTVYLHLSSLTSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTLTVSS(SEQ ID NO: 3) 20E2EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSRKLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPEKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNTLFLQMTSLRSEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTSVTVSS (SEQ ID NO: 4)

TABLE 2 CD40 Murine Leads - VK Sequences 2H11QIVLTQSPAIMSASPGEKVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQQKPGTSPKLWIYSTSNLASGVPARFGGSGSGTSYSLTISRMEAEDAATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKLEIK (SEQ ID NO: 5) 10F2QIVLTQSPTIMSASPGEKVIITCSATSSVSYILWFQQKPGTSPKLWIYSTSNLASGVPARFSGSGSGASYSLTISRMEAEDAATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKLEIK (SEQ ID NO: 6) 19B10QIVLTQSPAIMSASPGEKVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQQKPGTSPKLWIYSTSNLASGVPARFSGSGSGTSYSLTISRMEAEDAATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKLEIK (SEQ ID NO: 7) 20E2DIVMTQSPSSLTVTAGEKVTMSCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFTGSGSGTDFTLTISNLQAEDLAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGAGTKLELK (SEQ ID NO: 8)

Human framework sequences were selected for each of the mouse leadsbased on the framework homology, CDR structure, conserved canonicalresidues, conserved interface packing residues and other parameters.

The murine heavy chain and light chain CDRs of the various murineantibodies selected antibodies are shown in Table 3 and Table 4,respectively:

TABLE 3 HEAVY CHAIN CDR sequences Construct name H-CDR1 H-CDR2 H-CDR32H11 GFNIK

SEQ ID NO: 9 SEQ ID NO: 12 SEQ ID NO: 16 10F2 GFNIK

SEQ ID NO: 10 SEQ ID NO: 13 SEQ ID NO: 16 19B10 GFNIK

SEQ ID NO: 9 SEQ ID NO: 14 SEQ ID NO: 16 20E2 GFTFS

SEQ ID NO: 11 SEQ ID NO: 15 SEQ ID NO: 17

The H-CDR1 listed above is using the sequence using the Chothianumbering system (Al-Lazikani et al., (1997) JMB 273,927-948). TheKabats numbering for the sequences is denoted by the bold italicizedtext and the IMGT numbering is shown by underlined text of the residuesin the above table for CDR1 and CDR2. The sequences for the H-CDR3 foreach of 2H11, 10F2 and 19B10 is

(SEQ ID NO: 77) TTSYYVGTYGYand for

(SEQ ID NO: 78) ARQDGYRYAMDY.

TABLE 4 LIGHTCHAIN CDR sequences Construct name L-CDR1 L-CDR2 L-CDR32H11

SEQ ID NO: 18 SEQ ID NO: 22 SEQ ID NO: 24 10F2

SEQ ID NO: 19 SEQ ID NO: 22 SEQ ID NO: 24 19B10

SEQ ID NO: 20 SEQ ID NO: 22 SEQ ID NO: 24 20E2

SEQ ID NO: 21 SEQ ID NO: 23 SEQ ID NO: 25Again, the Chothia numbering system is used in Table 4 with the Kabatsnumbering for the sequences being denoted by the bold, italicized textand the IMGT numbering is shown by underlined text.

Fabs that showed better or equal binding as compared to the chimericparent Fab were selected for conversion to IgG. Clones from the 20E2series were converted to two different IgG formats: a) IgG4DM (doublemutant) has two mutations in the Fc/hinge region, Ser228Pro whichreduces half-molecule formation and Leu235Glu which further reduces FcγRbinding. b) IgG1KO (knock-out of effector functions) has two mutationsin the Fc region, Leu234Ala and Leu235Ala, which reduce effectorfunction such as FcγR and complement binding. Both IgG formats aredescribed in the literature. Example 1 describes the humanization ofthree candidates in further detail. The results of such humanizationresulted in humanized antibody sequences, which have the heavy and lightchain sequences shown below:

Identity Sequence SEQ ID NO: Antibody A (LightDIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGERATMSCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTW 26 Chain)HQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIKR TVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASVVCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTLSKADYEKHKVYACEVTHQ GLSSPVTKSFNRGECAntibody A (Heavy EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 27Chain, IgG1KO) GKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody A (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 28 Chain, IgG1)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody A (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP Chain, IgG4DM)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQ 29MNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPCSRSTSESTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTKTYTCNVDHKPSNTKVDKRVESKYGPPCPPCPAPEFEGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSQEDPEVQFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQFNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKGLPSSIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSQEEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSRLTVDKSRWQEGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSLGK Antibody AEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP (Heavy, IgG1KOb)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQ 30MNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody B (LightDIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGEKVTINCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYL Chain)TWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYHTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFT 31LTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIKR TVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASVVCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTLSKADYEKH KVYACEVTHQGLSSPVTKSFNRGECAntibody B (Heavy EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPChain, IgG1KO) GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQ 32MNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody B (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP Chain, IgG1)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQ 33MNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody B (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 34 Chain, IgG4 DM)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPCSRSTSESTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSSNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTKTYTCNVDHKPSNTKVDKRVESKYGPPCPPCPAPEFEGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSQEDPEVQFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQFNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKGLPSSIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSQEEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSRLTVDKSRWQEGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSLGK Antibody B (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTESDYGMHWVRQAP Chain, IgG1KOb)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQ 35MNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody C (LightDIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQ Chain)QKPGKAPKLLIYSTSNLASGVPSRFSGSGSGTDFTL 36TISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIKR TVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASVVCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTL SKADYEKHKVYACEVTHQGLSSPVTKSFNRGECAntibody C (Heavy QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAPChain, IgG1KO) GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYME 37LSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody C (HeavyQVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP Chain, IgG1)GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYME 38LSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody C (HeavyQVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP Chain, IgG4 DM)GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYME 39LSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPCSRSTSESTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTKTYTCNVDHKPSNTKVDKRVESKYGPPCPPCPAPEFEGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSQEDPEVQFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQFNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKGLPSSIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSQEEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSRLTVDKSRWQEGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSLGK Antibody C (HeavyQVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP Chain, IgG1KOb)GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYME 40LSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK

In some embodiments, the antigen-binding fragment can, for example,block proliferation or otherwise arrest the growth of a cell or causeits depletion, death, or otherwise its deletion, for example, throughbinding the CD40 surface antigen. For example, in T and B cellmalignancies, anti-tumor effects (e.g., growth arrest with or withoutcell deletion or apoptosis) often result when malignant cells areexposed to stimuli that lead to activation of normal lymphocytes. Thisactivation-induced growth arrest has been observed with signals througheither antigen receptors or costimulatory receptors (see, e.g., Ashwellet al., 1987, Science 237:61; Bridges et al., 1987, J. Immunol.139:4242; Page and Defranco, 1988, J. Immunol. 140:3717; and Beckwith etal., 1990, J. Natl. Cancer Inst. 82:501). CD40 stimulation, as a resultof specific binding by either antibody or soluble ligand, inhibits Bcell lymphoma growth (see, e.g., Funakoshi et al., 1994, Blood83:2787-2794). Agents that inhibit malignant cell growth in this way andthat are directed against the CD40 surface antigen are examples ofappropriate agents.

CD40 specific agents include an antigen-binding fragment of a humanizedanti-CD40 antibody that binds to CD40 (e.g., human CD40 or a variantthereof). The CD40 specific agents and antibodies can be optionallyconjugated with or fused to a cytotoxic or chemotherapeutic agent. Inaspects where the humanized antibody binds to the CD40 surface antigenand causes depletion of the CD40 expressing cell types, binding isgenerally characterized by homing to the CD40 surface antigen cell invivo. Suitable binding agents bind the CD40 antigen with sufficientaffinity and/or avidity such that the CD40 specific agent is useful as atherapeutic agent by specifically targeting a cell expressing theantigen.

In some aspects, the humanized antibody decreases the binding of CD40ligand to CD40 by at least 45%, by at least 50%, by at least 60% or byat least 75% or at least 80%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%.

In some embodiments, the humanized anti-CD40 antibodies, includingantigen-binding fragments thereof, such as heavy and light chainvariable domains, comprise an amino acid sequence of the residuesderived from the CDRs Antibody A (heavy chain sequence=SEQ ID NO:27; SEQID NO:28; SEQ ID NO:29 or SEQ ID NO:30; light chain sequence=SEQ IDNO:26), Antibody B (heavy chain sequence=SEQ ID NO:32; SEQ ID NO:33; SEQID NO:34; or SEQ ID NO:35; light chain sequence=SEQ ID NO:31) andAntibody C (heavy chain sequence=SEQ ID NO:37; SEQ ID NO:38; SEQ IDNO:39 or SEQ ID NO:40; light chain sequence=SEQ ID NO:36) describedherein above and amino acid residues derived from framework regions of ahuman immunoglobulin. The humanized anti-CD40 antibodies optionallyinclude specific amino acid substitutions in the consensus or germlineframework regions.

The specific substitution of amino acid residues in these frameworkpositions can improve various aspects of antibody performance includingbinding affinity and/or stability, over that demonstrated in humanizedantibodies formed by “direct swap” of CDRs or HVLs into the humangermline framework regions, as shown in the examples below.

In some embodiments, the present invention describes other monoclonalantibodies with heavy chain (V_(H)) sequences of SEQ ID NO:1 through SEQID NO:4 and light chain (V_(L)) sequences of SEQ ID NO:5 to SEQ ID NO:8(see Tables 1 and 2 above). The CDR sequence of these murine antibodiesare shown in Tables 3 and 4 placing such CDRs into FRs of the humanconsensus heavy and light chain variable domains will yield usefulhumanized antibodies of the present invention.

In some specific embodiments, the humanized anti-CD40 antibodiesdisclosed herein comprise at least a heavy or light chain variabledomain comprising the CDRs or HVLs of the murine monoclonal antibodiesas shown in Tables 1 through 4 above and the FRs of the human germlineheavy and light chain variable domains. In exemplary embodiments, thehumanized antibodies created herein are: Antibody A, Antibody B andAntibody C and the various heavy and light chain sequences of the sameare shown in SEQ ID NOs 26 through SEQ ID NO:40.

In specific embodiments, antibodies are contemplated that have a heavychain sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO:29 orSEQ ID NO:30 in combination with a light chain sequence of SEQ ID NO:26.Alternative antibodies include those that have a heavy chain sequence ofSEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34 or SEQ ID NO SEQ ID NO:35, incombination with a light chain sequence of SEQ ID NO:31. In stilladditional embodiments, there are provided humanized antibodies thathave a heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: 37, SEQ ID NO:38; SEQ ID NO:39or SEQ ID NO: 40, in combination with a light chain sequence of SEQ IDNO:36.

The CDRs of these sequences are shown in Tables 3 and 4. In specificembodiments, it is contemplated that chimerical antibodies with switchedCDR regions (i.e., for example switching one or two CDRs of Antibody Awith the analogous CDR from Antibody C) between these exemplaryimmunoglobulins may yield useful antibodies.

In certain embodiments, the humanized anti-CD40 antibody is an antibodyfragment. Various antibody fragments have been generally discussed aboveand there are techniques that have been developed for the production ofantibody fragments. Fragments can be derived via proteolytic digestionof intact antibodies (see, e.g., Morimoto et al., 1992, Journal ofBiochemical and Biophysical Methods 24:107-117; and Brennan et al.,1985, Science 229:81). Alternatively, the fragments can be produceddirectly in recombinant host cells. For example, Fab′-SH fragments canbe directly recovered from E. coli and chemically coupled to formF(ab′)₂ fragments (see, e.g., Carter et al., 1992, Bio/Technology10:163-167). By another approach, F(ab′)₂ fragments can be isolateddirectly from recombinant host cell culture. Other techniques for theproduction of antibody fragments will be apparent to the skilledpractitioner.

Certain embodiments include an F(ab′)₂ fragment of a humanized anti-CD40antibody comprising a have a heavy chain sequence of any of SEQ IDNO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO:29 or SEQ ID NO:30 in combination with alight chain sequence of SEQ ID NO:26. Alternative antibodies includethose that have a heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33,SEQ ID NO:34 or SEQ ID NO:35, in combination with a light chain sequenceof SEQ ID NO:31. In still additional embodiments, there are providedhumanized antibodies that have a heavy chain sequence of SEQ ID NO: 37,SEQ ID NO:38; SEQ ID NO:39 or SEQ ID NO: 40, in combination with a lightchain sequence of SEQ ID NO:36. Such embodiments can include an intactantibody comprising such an F(ab′)₂.

In some embodiments, the antibody or antibody fragment includes aconstant region that mediates effector function. The constant region canprovide antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC),antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) and/orcomplement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) responses against aCD40-expressing target cell. The effector domain(s) can be, for example,an Fc region of an Ig molecule. Typically, the CD40 binding agentrecruits and/or activates cytotoxic white blood cells (e.g., naturalkiller (NK) cells, phagocytotic cells (e.g., macrophages), and/or serumcomplement components).

The effector domain of an antibody can be from any suitable vertebrateanimal species and isotypes. The isotypes from different animal speciesdiffer in the abilities to mediate effector functions. For example, theability of human immunoglobulin to mediate CDC and ADCC/ADCP isgenerally in the order of IgM≈IgG₁≈IgG₃>IgG₂>IgG₄ andIgG₁≈IgG₃>IgG₂/IgM/IgG₄, respectively. Murine immunoglobulins mediateCDC and ADCC/ADCP generally in the order of murineIgM≈IgG₃>>IgG_(2b)>IgG_(2a)>>IgG₁ and IgG_(2b)>IgG_(2a)>IgG₁>>IgG₃,respectively. In another example, murine IgG_(2a) mediates ADCC whileboth murine IgG_(2a) and IgM mediate CDC.

Antibody Modifications

The humanized anti-CD40 antibodies and agents can include modificationsof the humanized anti-CD40 antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof.For example, it may be desirable to modify the antibody with respect toeffector function, so as to enhance the effectiveness of the antibody intreating cancer. One such modification is the introduction of cysteineresidue(s) into the Fc region, thereby allowing interchain disulfidebond formation in this region. The homodimeric antibody thus generatedcan have improved internalization capability and/or increasedcomplement-mediated cell killing and/or antibody-dependent cellularcytotoxicity (ADCC). See, for example, Caron et al., 1992, J. Exp Med.176:1191-1195; and Shopes, 1992, J. Immunol. 148:2918-2922. Homodimericantibodies having enhanced anti-tumor activity can also be preparedusing heterobifunctional cross-linkers as described in Wolff et al.,1993, Cancer Research 53: 2560-2565. Alternatively, an antibody can beengineered to contain dual Fc regions, enhancing complement lysis andADCC capabilities of the antibody. See Stevenson et al., 1989,Anti-Cancer Drug Design 3: 219-230.

Antibodies with improved ability to support ADCC have been generated bymodifying the glycosylation pattern of their Fc region. This is possiblesince antibody glycosylation at the asparagine residue, N297, in theC_(H2) domain is involved in the interaction between IgG and Fcγreceptors prerequisite to ADCC. Host cell lines have been engineered toexpress antibodies with altered glycosylation, such as increasedbisecting N-acetylglucosamine or reduced fucose. Fucose reductionprovides greater enhancement to ADCC activity than does increasing thepresence of bisecting N-acetylglucosamine. Moreover, enhancement of ADCCby low fucose antibodies is independent of the FcγRIIIa V/Fpolymorphism.

Modifying the amino acid sequence of the Fc region of antibodies is analternative to glycosylation engineering to enhance ADCC. The bindingsite on human IgG₁ for Fcγ receptors has been determined by extensivemutational analysis. This led to the generation of humanized IgG₁antibodies with Fc mutations that increase the binding affinity forFcγRIIIa and enhance ADCC in vitro. Additionally, Fc variants have beenobtained with many different permutations of binding properties, e.g.,improved binding to specific FcγR receptors with unchanged or diminishedbinding to other FcγR receptors.

Another aspect includes immunoconjugates comprising the humanizedantibody or fragments thereof conjugated to a cytotoxic agent such as achemotherapeutic agent, a toxin (e.g., an enzymatically active toxin ofbacterial, fungal, plant, or animal origin, or fragments thereof), or aradioactive isotope (i.e., a radioconjugate).

Chemotherapeutic agents useful in the generation of suchimmunoconjugates have been described above. Enzymatically active toxinsand fragments thereof that can be used to form useful immunoconjugatesinclude diphtheria A chain, nonbinding active fragments of diphtheriatoxin, exotoxin A chain (from Pseudomonas aeruginosa), ricin A chain,abrin A chain, modeccin A chain, alpha-sarcin, Aleurites fordiiproteins, dianthin proteins, Phytolaca americana proteins (PAPI, PAPII,and PAP-S), Momordica charantia inhibitor, curcin, crotin, Sapaonariaofficinalis inhibitor, gelonin, mitogellin, restrictocin, phenomycin,enomycin, the tricothecenes, and the like. A variety of radionuclidesare available for the production of radioconjugated humanized anti-CD40antibodies. Examples include ²¹²Bi, ¹³¹I, ¹³¹In, ⁹⁰Y, and ¹⁸⁶Re.

Conjugates of the humanized anti-CD40 antibody and cytotoxic orchemotherapeutic agent can be made by known methods, using a variety ofbifunctional protein coupling agents such asN-succinimidyl-3-(2-pyridyldithiol) propionate (SPDP), iminothiolane(IT), bifunctional derivatives of imidoesters (such as dimethyladipimidate HCL), active esters (such as disuccinimidyl suberate),aldehydes (such as glutareldehyde), bis-azido compounds (such as bis(p-azidobenzoyl) hexanediamine), bis-diazonium derivatives (such asbis-(p-diazoniumbenzoyl)-ethylenediamine), diisocyanates (such astoluene 2,6-diisocyanate), and bis-active fluorine compounds (such as1,5-difluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene). For example, a ricin immunotoxin canbe prepared as described in Vitetta et al., 1987, Science 238:1098.Carbon-14-labeled 1-isothiocyanatobenzyl-3-methyldiethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (MX-DTPA) is an exemplary chelating agent forconjugation of radionucleotide to the antibody. Conjugates also can beformed with a cleavable linker.

In another embodiment, the antibody may be conjugated to a “receptor”(such as streptavidin) for utilization in tumor pretargeting. In thisprocedure, the antibody-receptor conjugate is administered to a patient,followed by removal of unbound conjugate from the circulation using aclearing agent and then administration of a “ligand” that selectivelybinds the receptor (e.g., avidin), the ligand being conjugated to acytotoxic agent (e.g., a radionuclide).

The humanized anti-CD40 antibodies disclosed herein can also beformulated as immunoliposomes. Liposomes containing the antibody areprepared by methods known in the art, such as described in Epstein etal., 1985, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 82:3688; Hwang et al., 1980, Proc.Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 77:4030; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,485,045 and4,544,545. Liposomes having enhanced circulation time are disclosed, forexample, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,013,556.

Particularly useful liposomes can be generated by the reverse phaseevaporation method with a lipid composition comprisingphosphatidylcholine, cholesterol and PEG-derivatizedphosphatidylethanolamine (PEG-PE). Liposomes are extruded throughfilters of defined pore size to yield liposomes with the desireddiameter. Fab′ fragments of an antibody disclosed herein can beconjugated to the liposomes as described in Martin et al., 1982, J.Biol. Chem. 257:286-288 via a disulfide interchange reaction. Achemotherapeutic agent (such as doxorubicin) is optionally containedwithin the liposome. See, e.g., Gabizon et al., 1989, J. National CancerInst. 81(19):1484.

The antibodies described and disclosed herein can also be used in ADEPT(Antibody-Directed Enzyme Prodrug Therapy) procedures by conjugating theantibody to a prodrug-activating enzyme that converts a prodrug (e.g., apeptidyl chemotherapeutic agent), to an active anti-cancer drug. See,for example, WO 81/01145, WO 88/07378, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,975,278. Theenzyme component of the immunoconjugate useful for ADEPT is an enzymecapable of acting on a prodrug in such a way so as to covert it into itsmore active, cytotoxic form. Specific enzymes that are useful in ADEPTinclude, but are not limited to, alkaline phosphatase for convertingphosphate-containing prodrugs into free drugs; arylsulfatase forconverting sulfate-containing prodrugs into free drugs; cytosinedeaminase for converting non-toxic 5-fluorocytosine into the anti-cancerdrug, 5-fluorouracil; proteases, such as Serratia protease, thermolysin,subtilisin, carboxypeptidases, and cathepsins (such as cathepsins B andL), for converting peptide-containing prodrugs into free drugs;D-alanylcarboxypeptidases, for converting prodrugs containing D-aminoacid substituents; carbohydrate-cleaving enzymes such as β-galactosidaseand neuraminidase for converting glycosylated prodrugs into free drugs;β-lactamase for converting drugs derivatized with β-lactams into freedrugs; and penicillin amidases, such as penicillin V amidase orpenicillin G amidase, for converting drugs derivatized at their aminenitrogens with phenoxyacetyl or phenylacetyl groups, respectively, intofree drugs. Alternatively, antibodies having enzymatic activity(“abzymes”) can be used to convert the prodrugs into free active drugs(see, for example, Massey, 1987, Nature 328: 457-458). Antibody-abzymeconjugates can be prepared by known methods for delivery of the abzymeto a tumor cell population, for example, by covalently binding theenzyme to the humanized anti-CD40 antibody/heterobifunctionalcrosslinking reagents discussed above. Alternatively, fusion proteinscomprising at least the antigen binding region of an antibody disclosedherein linked to at least a functionally active portion of an enzyme asdescribed above can be constructed using recombinant DNA techniques(see, e.g., Neuberger et al., 1984, Nature 312:604-608).

In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to use a humanized anti-CD40antibody fragment, rather than an intact antibody, to increase tumorpenetration, for example. It may be desirable to modify the antibodyfragment in order to increase its serum half life. This can be achieved,for example, by incorporation of a salvage receptor binding epitope intothe antibody fragment. In one method, the appropriate region of theantibody fragment can be altered (e.g., mutated), or the epitope can beincorporated into a peptide tag that is then fused to the antibodyfragment at either end or in the middle, for example, by DNA or peptidesynthesis. See, e.g., WO 96/32478.

In other embodiments, covalent modifications of the humanized anti-CD40antibody are also included. Covalent modifications include modificationof cysteinyl residues, histidyl residues, lysinyl and amino-terminalresidues, arginyl residues, tyrosyl residues, carboxyl side groups(aspartyl or glutamyl), glutaminyl and asparaginyl residues, or seryl,or threonyl residues. Another type of covalent modification involveschemically or enzymatically coupling glycosides to the antibody. Suchmodifications may be made by chemical synthesis or by enzymatic orchemical cleavage of the antibody, if applicable. Other types ofcovalent modifications of the antibody can be introduced into themolecule by reacting targeted amino acid residues of the antibody withan organic derivatizing agent that is capable of reacting with selectedside chains or the amino- or carboxy-terminal residues.

Removal of any carbohydrate moieties present on the antibody can beaccomplished chemically or enzymatically. Chemical deglycosylation isdescribed by Hakimuddin et al., 1987, Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 259:52 andby Edge et al., 1981, Anal. Biochem., 118:131. Enzymatic cleavage ofcarbohydrate moieties on antibodies can be achieved by the use of avariety of endo- and exo-glycosidases as described by Thotakura et al.,1987, Meth. Enzymol 138:350.

Another type of useful covalent modification comprises linking theantibody to one of a variety of nonproteinaceous polymers, e.g.,polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, or polyoxyalkylenes, in themanner set forth in one or more of U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,640,835, 4,496,689,4,301,144, 4,670,417, 4,791,192 and 4,179,337.

Humanization and Amino Acid Sequence Variants

Amino acid sequence variants of the anti-CD40 antibody can be preparedby introducing appropriate nucleotide changes into the anti-CD40antibody DNA, or by peptide synthesis. Such variants include, forexample, deletions from, and/or insertions into and/or substitutions of,residues within the amino acid sequences of the anti-CD40 antibodies ofthe examples herein. Any combination of deletions, insertions, andsubstitutions is made to arrive at the final construct, provided thatthe final construct possesses the desired characteristics. The aminoacid changes also may alter post-translational processes of thehumanized or variant anti-CD40 antibody, such as changing the number orposition of glycosylation sites.

A useful method for identification of certain residues or regions of theanti-CD40 antibody that are preferred locations for mutagenesis iscalled “alanine scanning mutagenesis,” as described by Cunningham andWells (Science, 244:1081-1085 (1989)). Here, a residue or group oftarget residues are identified (e.g., charged residues such as arg, asp,his, lys, and glu) and replaced by a neutral or negatively charged aminoacid (typically alanine) to affect the interaction of the amino acidswith CD40 antigen. Those amino acid locations demonstrating functionalsensitivity to the substitutions then are refined by introducing furtheror other variants at, or for, the sites of substitution. Thus, while thesite for introducing an amino acid sequence variation is predetermined,the nature of the mutation per se need not be predetermined. Forexample, to analyze the performance of a mutation at a given site,alanine scanning or random mutagenesis is conducted at the target codonor region and the expressed anti-CD40 antibody variants are screened forthe desired activity.

Amino acid sequence insertions include amino- and/or carboxyl-terminalfusions ranging in length from one residue to polypeptides containing ahundred or more residues, as well as intrasequence insertions of singleor multiple amino acid residues. Examples of terminal insertions includean anti-CD40 antibody fused to an epitope tag. Other insertionalvariants of the anti-CD40 antibody molecule include a fusion to the N-or C-terminus of the anti-CD40 antibody of an enzyme or a polypeptidewhich increases the serum half-life of the antibody.

Another type of variant is an amino acid substitution variant. Thesevariants have at least one amino acid residue in the anti-CD40 antibodymolecule removed and a different residue inserted in its place. Thesites of greatest interest for substitutional mutagenesis include thehypervariable regions, but FR alterations are also contemplated.Conservative substitutions are shown in Table 5 under the heading of“preferred substitutions”. If such substitutions result in a change inbiological activity, then more substantial changes, denominated“exemplary substitutions”, or as further described below in reference toamino acid classes, may be introduced and the products screened.

TABLE 5 Preferred Original Residue Exemplary Substitutions SubstitutionsAla (A) val; leu; ile val Arg (R) lys; gln; asn lys Asn (N) gln; his;asp, lys; arg gln Asp (D) glu; asn glu Cys (C) ser; ala ser Gln (Q) asn;glu asn Glu (E) asp; gln asp Gly (G) ala ala His (H) arg; asn; gln; lys;arg Ile (I) leu; val; met; ala; phe; norleucine leu Leu (L) ile;norleucine; val; met; ala; phe ile Lys (K) arg; gln; asn arg Met (M)leu; phe; ile leu Phe (F) tyr; leu; val; ile; ala; tyr Pro (P) ala alaSer (S) thr thr Thr (T) ser ser Trp (W) tyr; phe tyr Tyr (Y) phe; trp;thr; ser phe Val (V) leu; ile; met; phe ala; norleucine; leu

It protein chemistry, it is generally accepted that the biologicalproperties of the antibody can be accomplished by selectingsubstitutions that differ significantly in their effect on maintaining(a) the structure of the polypeptide backbone in the area of thesubstitution, for example, as a sheet or helical conformation, (b) thecharge or hydrophobicity of the molecule at the target site, or (c) thebulk of the side chain. Naturally occurring residues are divided intogroups based on common side-chain properties:

(1) hydrophobic: norleucine, met, ala, val, leu, ile;

(2) neutral hydrophilic: cys, ser, thr;

(3) acidic: asp, glu;

(4) basic: asn, gin, his, lys, arg;

(5) residues that influence chain orientation: gly, pro; and

(6) aromatic: trp, tyr, phe.

Non-conservative substitutions will entail exchanging a member of one ofthese classes for another class.

Any cysteine residue not involved in maintaining the proper conformationof the humanized or variant anti-CD40 antibody also may be substituted,generally with serine, to improve the oxidative stability of themolecule, prevent aberrant crosslinking, or provide for establishedpoints of conjugation to a cytotoxic or cytostatic compound. Conversely,cysteine bond(s) may be added to the antibody to improve its stability(particularly where the antibody is an antibody fragment such as an Fvfragment).

A type of substitutional variant involves substituting one or morehypervariable region residues of a parent antibody (e.g., a humanized orhuman antibody). Generally, the resulting variant(s) selected forfurther development will have improved biological properties relative tothe parent antibody from which they are generated. A convenient way forgenerating such substitutional variants is affinity maturation usingphage display. Briefly, several hypervariable region sites (e.g., 6-7sites) are mutated to generate all possible amino substitutions at eachsite. The antibody variants thus generated are displayed in a monovalentfashion from filamentous phage particles as fusions to the gene IIIproduct of M13 packaged within each particle. The phage-displayedvariants are then screened for their biological activity (e.g., bindingaffinity). In order to identify candidate hypervariable region sites formodification, alanine scanning mutagenesis can be performed to identifyhypervariable region residues contributing significantly to antigenbinding. Alternatively, or in addition, it may be beneficial to analyzea crystal structure of the antigen-antibody complex to identify contactpoints between the antibody and human CD40. Such contact residues andneighboring residues are candidates for substitution according to thetechniques elaborated herein. Once such variants are generated, thepanel of variants is subjected to screening as described herein andantibodies with superior properties in one or more relevant assays maybe selected for further development.

Another type of amino acid variant of the antibody alters the originalglycosylation pattern of the antibody. By “altering” is meant deletingone or more carbohydrate moieties found in the antibody, and/or addingone or more glycosylation sites that are not present in the antibody.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to modify the antibodies of theinvention to add glycosylations sites. Glycosylation of antibodies istypically either N-linked or O-linked. N-linked refers to the attachmentof the carbohydrate moiety to the side chain of an asparagine residue.The tripeptide sequences asparagine-X-serine and asparagine-X-threonine,where X is any amino acid except proline, are the recognition sequencesfor enzymatic attachment of the carbohydrate moiety to the asparagineside chain. Thus, the presence of either of these tripeptide sequencesin a polypeptide creates a potential glycosylation site. O-linkedglycosylation refers to the attachment of one of the sugarsN-aceylgalactosamine, galactose, or xylose to a hydroxyamino acid, mostcommonly serine or threonine, although 5-hydroxyproline or5-hydroxylysine may also be used. Thus, in order to glycosylate a givenprotein, e.g., an antibody, the amino acid sequence of the protein isengineered to contain one or more of the above-described tripeptidesequences (for N-linked glycosylation sites). The alteration may also bemade by the addition of, or substitution by, one or more serine orthreonine residues to the sequence of the original antibody (forO-linked glycosylation sites).

Nucleic acid molecules encoding amino acid sequence variants of theanti-CD40 antibody are prepared by a variety of methods known in theart. These methods include, but are not limited to, isolation from anatural source (in the case of naturally occurring amino acid sequencevariants) or preparation by oligonucleotide-mediated (or site-directed)mutagenesis, PCR mutagenesis, and cassette mutagenesis of an earlierprepared variant or a non-variant version of the anti-CD40 antibody.

Polynucleotides, Vectors, Host Cells, and Recombinant Methods

Other embodiments encompass isolated polynucleotides that comprise asequence encoding a humanized anti-CD40 antibody, vectors, and hostcells comprising the polynucleotides, and recombinant techniques forproduction of the humanized antibody. The isolated polynucleotides canencode any desired form of the anti-CD40 antibody including, forexample, full length monoclonal antibodies, Fab, Fab′, F(ab′)₂, and Fvfragments, diabodies, linear antibodies, single-chain antibodymolecules, and multispecific antibodies formed from antibody fragments.

Some embodiments include isolated polynucleotides comprising sequencesthat encode an antibody or antibody fragment having the heavy chainvariable region amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4, SEQ IDNO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ IDNO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ IDNO:39, or SEQ ID NO: 40. Some embodiments include isolatedpolynucleotides comprising sequences that encode an antibody or antibodyfragment having the light chain variable domain amino acid sequence ofSEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, or SEQ ID NO:36.

In one aspect, the isolated polynucleotide sequence(s) encodes anantibody or antibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and alight chain variable region comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQID NO:27 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:28 and SEQ ID NO:26,respectively; SEQ ID NO:29 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:30and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:32 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:33 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:34and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:35 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:38and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:39 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively; SEQ ID NO:40 and SEQ ID NO: 36, respectively.

The polynucleotide(s) that comprise a sequence encoding a humanizedanti-CD40 antibody or a fragment or chain thereof can be fused to one ormore regulatory or control sequence, as known in the art, and can becontained in suitable expression vectors or host cell as known in theart. Each of the polynucleotide molecules encoding the heavy or lightchain variable domains can be independently fused to a polynucleotidesequence encoding a constant domain, such as a human constant domain,enabling the production of intact antibodies. Alternatively,polynucleotides, or portions thereof, can be fused together, providing atemplate for production of a single chain antibody.

For recombinant production, a polynucleotide encoding the antibody isinserted into a replicable vector for cloning (amplification of the DNA)or for expression. Many suitable vectors for expressing the recombinantantibody are available. The vector components generally include, but arenot limited to, one or more of the following: a signal sequence, anorigin of replication, one or more marker genes, an enhancer element, apromoter, and a transcription termination sequence.

The humanized anti-CD40 antibodies can also be produced as fusionpolypeptides, in which the antibody is fused with a heterologouspolypeptide, such as a signal sequence or other polypeptide having aspecific cleavage site at the amino terminus of the mature protein orpolypeptide. The heterologous signal sequence selected is typically onethat is recognized and processed (i.e., cleaved by a signal peptidase)by the host cell. For prokaryotic host cells that do not recognize andprocess the humanized anti-CD40 antibody signal sequence, the signalsequence can be substituted by a prokaryotic signal sequence. The signalsequence can be, for example, alkaline phosphatase, penicillinase,lipoprotein, heat-stable enterotoxin II leaders, and the like. For yeastsecretion, the native signal sequence can be substituted, for example,with a leader sequence obtained from yeast invertase alpha-factor(including Saccharomyces and Kluyveromyces α-factor leaders), acidphosphatase, C. albicans glucoamylase, or the signal described inWO90/13646. In mammalian cells, mammalian signal sequences as well asviral secretory leaders, for example, the herpes simplex gD signal, canbe used. The DNA for such precursor region is ligated in reading frameto DNA encoding the humanized anti-CD40 antibody.

Expression and cloning vectors contain a nucleic acid sequence thatenables the vector to replicate in one or more selected host cells.Generally, in cloning vectors this sequence is one that enables thevector to replicate independently of the host chromosomal DNA, andincludes origins of replication or autonomously replicating sequences.Such sequences are well known for a variety of bacteria, yeast, andviruses. The origin of replication from the plasmid pBR322 is suitablefor most Gram-negative bacteria, the 2-υ. plasmid origin is suitable foryeast, and various viral origins (SV40, polyoma, adenovirus, VSV, andBPV) are useful for cloning vectors in mammalian cells. Generally, theorigin of replication component is not needed for mammalian expressionvectors (the SV40 origin may typically be used only because it containsthe early promoter).

Expression and cloning vectors may contain a gene that encodes aselectable marker to facilitate identification of expression. Typicalselectable marker genes encode proteins that confer resistance toantibiotics or other toxins, e.g., ampicillin, neomycin, methotrexate,or tetracycline, or alternatively, are complement auxotrophicdeficiencies, or in other alternatives supply specific nutrients thatare not present in complex media, e.g., the gene encoding D-alanineracemase for Bacilli.

One example of a selection scheme utilizes a drug to arrest growth of ahost cell. Those cells that are successfully transformed with aheterologous gene produce a protein conferring drug resistance and thussurvive the selection regimen. Examples of such dominant selection usethe drugs neomycin, mycophenolic acid, and hygromycin. Common selectablemarkers for mammalian cells are those that enable the identification ofcells competent to take up a nucleic acid encoding a humanized anti-CD40antibody, such as DHFR (dihydrofolate reductase), thymidine kinase,metallothionein-I and -II (such as primate metallothionein genes),adenosine deaminase, ornithine decarboxylase, and the like. Cellstransformed with the DHFR selection gene are first identified byculturing all of the transformants in a culture medium that containsmethotrexate (Mtx), a competitive antagonist of DHFR. An appropriatehost cell when wild-type DHFR is employed is the Chinese hamster ovary(CHO) cell line deficient in DHFR activity (e.g., DG44).

Alternatively, host cells (particularly wild-type hosts that containendogenous DHFR) transformed or co-transformed with DNA sequencesencoding anti-CD40 antibody, wild-type DHFR protein, and anotherselectable marker such as aminoglycoside 3′-phosphotransferase (APH),can be selected by cell growth in medium containing a selection agentfor the selectable marker such as an aminoglycosidic antibiotic, e.g.,kanamycin, neomycin, or G418. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,965,199.

Where the recombinant production is performed in a yeast cell as a hostcell, the TRP1 gene present in the yeast plasmid YRp7 (Stinchcomb etal., 1979, Nature 282: 39) can be used as a selectable marker. The TRP1gene provides a selection marker for a mutant strain of yeast lackingthe ability to grow in tryptophan, for example, ATCC No. 44076 or PEP4-1(Jones, 1977, Genetics 85:12). The presence of the trp1 lesion in theyeast host cell genome then provides an effective environment fordetecting transformation by growth in the absence of tryptophan.Similarly, Leu2p-deficient yeast strains such as ATCC 20,622 and 38,626are complemented by known plasmids bearing the LEU2 gene.

In addition, vectors derived from the 1.6 μm circular plasmid pKD1 canbe used for transformation of Kluyveromyces yeasts. Alternatively, anexpression system for large-scale production of recombinant calfchymosin was reported for K. lactis (Van den Berg, 1990, Bio/Technology8:135). Stable multi-copy expression vectors for secretion of maturerecombinant human serum albumin by industrial strains of Kluyveromyceshave also been disclosed (Fleer et al., 1991, Bio/Technology 9:968-975).

Expression and cloning vectors usually contain a promoter that isrecognized by the host organism and is operably linked to the nucleicacid molecule encoding an anti-CD40 antibody or polypeptide chainthereof. Promoters suitable for use with prokaryotic hosts include phoApromoter, β-lactamase and lactose promoter systems, alkalinephosphatase, tryptophan (trp) promoter system, and hybrid promoters suchas the tac promoter. Other known bacterial promoters are also suitable.Promoters for use in bacterial systems also will contain a Shine-Dalgamo(S.D.) sequence operably linked to the DNA encoding the humanizedanti-CD40 antibody.

Many eukaryotic promoter sequences are known. Virtually all eukaryoticgenes have an AT-rich region located approximately 25 to 30 basesupstream from the site where transcription is initiated. Anothersequence found 70 to 80 bases upstream from the start of transcriptionof many genes is a CNCAAT region where N may be any nucleotide. At the3′ end of most eukaryotic genes is an AATAAA sequence that may be thesignal for addition of the poly A tail to the 3′ end of the codingsequence. All of these sequences are suitably inserted into eukaryoticexpression vectors.

Examples of suitable promoting sequences for use with yeast hostsinclude the promoters for 3-phosphoglycerate kinase or other glycolyticenzymes, such as enolase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase,hexokinase, pyruvate decarboxylase, phosphofructokinase,glucose-6-phosphate isomerase, 3-phosphoglycerate mutase, pyruvatekinase, triosephosphate isomerase, phosphoglucose isomerase, andglucokinase.

Inducible promoters have the additional advantage of transcriptioncontrolled by growth conditions. These include yeast promoter regionsfor alcohol dehydrogenase 2, isocytochrome C, acid phosphatase,derivative enzymes associated with nitrogen metabolism, metallothionein,glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, and enzymes responsible formaltose and galactose utilization. Suitable vectors and promoters foruse in yeast expression are further described in EP 73,657. Yeastenhancers also are advantageously used with yeast promoters.

Humanized anti-CD40 antibody transcription from vectors in mammalianhost cells is controlled, for example, by promoters obtained from thegenomes of viruses such as polyoma virus, fowlpox virus, adenovirus(such as Adenovirus 2), bovine papilloma virus, avian sarcoma virus,cytomegalovirus, a retrovirus, hepatitis-B virus and Simian Virus 40(SV40), from heterologous mammalian promoters, e.g., the actin promoteror an immunoglobulin promoter, or from heat-shock promoters, providedsuch promoters are compatible with the host cell systems.

The early and late promoters of the SV40 virus are conveniently obtainedas an SV40 restriction fragment that also contains the SV40 viral originof replication. The immediate early promoter of the humancytomegalovirus is conveniently obtained as a HindIII E restrictionfragment. A system for expressing DNA in mammalian hosts using thebovine papilloma virus as a vector is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,419,446. A modification of this system is described in U.S. Pat. No.4,601,978. See also Reyes et al., 1982, Nature 297:598-601, disclosingexpression of human p-interferon cDNA in mouse cells under the controlof a thymidine kinase promoter from herpes simplex virus. Alternatively,the rous sarcoma virus long terminal repeat can be used as the promoter.

Another useful element that can be used in a recombinant expressionvector is an enhancer sequence, which is used to increase thetranscription of a DNA encoding a humanized anti-CD40 antibody by highereukaryotes. Many enhancer sequences are now known from mammalian genes(e.g., globin, elastase, albumin, α-fetoprotein, and insulin).Typically, however, an enhancer from a eukaryotic cell virus is used.Examples include the SV40 enhancer on the late side of the replicationorigin (bp 100-270), the cytomegalovirus early promoter enhancer, thepolyoma enhancer on the late side of the replication origin, andadenovirus enhancers. See also Yaniv, 1982, Nature 297:17-18 for adescription of enhancing elements for activation of eukaryoticpromoters. The enhancer may be spliced into the vector at a position 5′or 3′ to the humanized anti-CD40 antibody-encoding sequence, but ispreferably located at a site 5′ from the promoter.

Expression vectors used in eukaryotic host cells (yeast, fingi, insect,plant, animal, human, or nucleated cells from other multicellularorganisms) can also contain sequences necessary for the termination oftranscription and for stabilizing the mRNA. Such sequences are commonlyavailable from the 5′ and, occasionally 3′, untranslated regions ofeukaryotic or viral DNAs or cDNAs. These regions contain nucleotidesegments transcribed as polyadenylated fragments in the untranslatedportion of the mRNA encoding anti-CD40 antibody. One usefultranscription termination component is the bovine growth hormonepolyadenylation region. See WO94/11026 and the expression vectordisclosed therein. In some embodiments, humanized anti-CD40 antibodiescan be expressed using the CHEF system. (See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No.5,888,809; the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.)

Suitable host cells for cloning or expressing the DNA in the vectorsherein are the prokaryote, yeast, or higher eukaryote cells describedabove. Suitable prokaryotes for this purpose include eubacteria, such asGram-negative or Gram-positive organisms, for example,Enterobacteriaceae such as Escherichia, e.g., E. coli, Enterobacter,Erwinia, Klebsiella, Proteus, Salmonella, e.g., Salmonella typhimurium,Serratia, e.g., Serratia marcescans, and Shigella, as well as Bacillisuch as B. subtilis and B. licheniformis (e.g., B. licheniformis 41 Pdisclosed in DD 266,710 published Apr. 12, 1989), Pseudomonas such as P.aeruginosa, and Streptomyces. One preferred E. coli cloning host is E.coli 294 (ATCC 31,446), although other strains such as E. coli B, E.coli X1776 (ATCC 31,537), and E. coli W3110 (ATCC 27,325) are suitable.These examples are illustrative rather than limiting.

In addition to prokaryotes, eukaryotic microbes such as filamentousfungi or yeast are suitable cloning or expression hosts for humanizedanti-CD40 antibody-encoding vectors. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or commonbaker's yeast, is the most commonly used among lower eukaryotic hostmicroorganisms. However, a number of other genera, species, and strainsare commonly available and useful herein, such as Schizosaccharomycespombe; Kluyveromyces hosts such as, e.g., K. lactis, K. fragilis (ATCC12,424), K. bulgaricus (ATCC 16,045), K. wickeramii (ATCC 24,178), K.waltii (ATCC 56,500), K. drosophilarum (ATCC 36,906), K. thermotolerans,and K. marxianus; yarrowia (EP 402,226); Pichia pastors (EP 183,070);Candida; Trichoderma reesia (EP 244,234); Neurospora crassa;Schwanniomyces such as Schwanniomyces occidentalis; and filamentousfungi such as, e.g., Neurospora, Penicillium, Tolypocladium, andAspergillus hosts such as A. nidulans and A. niger.

Suitable host cells for the expression of glycosylated humanizedanti-CD40 antibody are derived from multicellular organisms. Examples ofinvertebrate cells include plant and insect cells, including, e.g.,numerous baculoviral strains and variants and corresponding permissiveinsect host cells from hosts such as Spodoptera frugiperda(caterpillar), Aedes aegypti (mosquito), Aedes albopictus (mosquito),Drosophila melanogaster (fruitfly), and Bombyx mori (silk worm). Avariety of viral strains for transfection are publicly available, e.g.,the L-1 variant of Autographa californica NPV and the Bm-5 strain ofBombyx mori NPV, and such viruses may be used, particularly fortransfection of Spodoptera frugiperda cells.

Plant cell cultures of cotton, corn, potato, soybean, petunia, tomato,and tobacco can also be utilized as hosts.

In another aspect, expression of humanized anti-CD40 is carried out invertebrate cells. The propagation of vertebrate cells in culture (tissueculture) has become routine procedure and techniques are widelyavailable. Examples of useful mammalian host cell lines are monkeykidney CV1 line transformed by SV40 (COS-7, ATCC CRL 1651), humanembryonic kidney line (293 or 293 cells subcloned for growth insuspension culture, (Graham et al., 1977, J. Gen Virol. 36: 59), babyhamster kidney cells (BHK, ATCC CCL 10), Chinese hamster ovarycells/-DHFR1 (CHO, Urlaub et al., 1980, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 77:4216; e.g., DG44), mouse sertoli cells (TM4, Mather, 1980, Biol. Reprod.23:243-251), monkey kidney cells (CV1 ATCC CCL 70), African green monkeykidney cells (VERO-76, ATCC CRL-1587), human cervical carcinoma cells(HELA, ATCC CCL 2), canine kidney cells (MDCK, ATCC CCL 34), buffalo ratliver cells (BRL 3A, ATCC CRL 1442), human lung cells (W138, ATCC CCL75), human liver cells (Hep G2, HB 8065), mouse mammary tumor (MMT060562, ATCC CCL51), TR1 cells (Mather et al., 1982, Annals N.Y. Acad.Sci. 383: 44-68), MRC 5 cells, FS4 cells, and human hepatoma line (HepG2).

Host cells are transformed with the above-described expression orcloning vectors for humanized anti-CD40 antibody production and culturedin conventional nutrient media modified as appropriate for inducingpromoters, selecting transformants, or amplifying the genes encoding thedesired sequences.

The host cells used to produce a humanized anti-CD40 antibody describedherein may be cultured in a variety of media. Commercially availablemedia such as Ham's F10 (Sigma-Aldrich Co., St. Louis, Mo.), MinimalEssential Medium ((MEM), (Sigma-Aldrich Co.), RPMI-1640 (Sigma-AldrichCo.), and Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium ((DMEM), Sigma-Aldrich Co.)are suitable for culturing the host cells. In addition, any of the mediadescribed in one or more of Ham et al., 1979, Meth. Enz. 58: 44, Barneset al., 1980, Anal. Biochem. 102: 255, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,767,704,4,657,866, 4,927,762, 4,560,655, 5,122,469, WO 90/103430, and WO87/00195 may be used as culture media for the host cells. Any of thesemedia may be supplemented as necessary with hormones and/or other growthfactors (such as insulin, transferrin, or epidermal growth factor),salts (such as sodium chloride, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate),buffers (such as HEPES), nucleotides (such as adenosine and thymidine),antibiotics (such as gentamicin), trace elements (defined as inorganiccompounds usually present at final concentrations in the micromolarrange), and glucose or an equivalent energy source. Other supplementsmay also be included at appropriate concentrations that would be knownto those skilled in the art. The culture conditions, such astemperature, pH, and the like, are those previously used with the hostcell selected for expression, and will be apparent to the ordinarilyskilled artisan.

When using recombinant techniques, the antibody can be producedintracellularly, in the periplasmic space, or directly secreted into themedium. If the antibody is produced intracellularly, the cells may bedisrupted to release protein as a first step. Particulate debris, eitherhost cells or lysed fragments, can be removed, for example, bycentrifugation or ultrafiltration. Carter et al., 1992, Bio/Technology10:163-167 describes a procedure for isolating antibodies that aresecreted to the periplasmic space of E. coli. Briefly, cell paste isthawed in the presence of sodium acetate (pH 3.5), EDTA, andphenylmethylsulfonylfluoride (PMSF) over about 30 minutes. Cell debriscan be removed by centrifugation. Where the antibody is secreted intothe medium, supernatants from such expression systems are generallyfirst concentrated using a commercially available protein concentrationfilter, for example, an Amicon or Millipore Pellicon ultrafiltrationunit. A protease inhibitor such as PMSF may be included in any of theforegoing steps to inhibit proteolysis and antibiotics may be includedto prevent the growth of adventitious contaminants. A variety of methodscan be used to isolate the antibody from the host cell.

The antibody composition prepared from the cells can be purified using,for example, hydroxylapatite chromatography, gel electrophoresis,dialysis, and affinity chromatography, with affinity chromatographybeing a typical purification technique. The suitability of protein A asan affinity ligand depends on the species and isotype of anyimmunoglobulin Fc domain that is present in the antibody. Protein A canbe used to purify antibodies that are based on human gamma1, gamma2, orgamma4 heavy chains (see, e.g., Lindmark et al., 1983 J. Immunol. Meth.62:1-13). Protein G is recommended for all mouse isotypes and for humangamma3 (see, e.g., Guss et al., 1986 EMBO J. 5:1567-1575). A matrix towhich an affinity ligand is attached is most often agarose, but othermatrices are available. Mechanically stable matrices such as controlledpore glass or poly(styrenedivinyl)benzene allow for faster flow ratesand shorter processing times than can be achieved with agarose. Wherethe antibody comprises a C_(H3) domain, the Bakerbond ABX™ resin (J. T.Baker, Phillipsburg, N.J.) is useful for purification. Other techniquesfor protein purification such as fractionation on an ion-exchangecolumn, ethanol precipitation, reverse phase HPLC, chromatography onsilica, chromatography on heparin SEPHAROSE™ chromatography on an anionor cation exchange resin (such as a polyaspartic acid column),chromatofocusing, SDS-PAGE, and ammonium sulfate precipitation are alsoavailable depending on the antibody to be recovered.

Following any preliminary purification step(s), the mixture comprisingthe antibody of interest and contaminants may be subjected to low pHhydrophobic interaction chromatography using an elution buffer at a pHbetween about 2.5-4.5, typically performed at low salt concentrations(e.g., from about 0-0.25M salt).

Also included are nucleic acids that hybridize under low, moderate, andhigh stringency conditions, as defined herein, to all or a portion(e.g., the portion encoding the variable region) of the nucleotidesequence represented by isolated polynucleotide sequence(s) that encodean antibody or antibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domainand a light chain variable region comprising the amino acid sequences ofSEQ ID NO:27 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:28 and SEQ IDNO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:29 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ IDNO:30 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:32 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:33 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:34and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:35 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:38and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:39 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively; SEQ ID NO:40 and SEQ ID NO: 36, respectively. Thehybridizing portion of the hybridizing nucleic acid is typically atleast 15 (e.g., 20, 25, 30 or 50) nucleotides in length. The hybridizingportion of the hybridizing nucleic acid is at least 80%, e.g., at least90%, at least 95%, or at least 98%, identical to the sequence of aportion or all of a nucleic acid encoding an anti-CD40 polypeptide(e.g., a heavy chain or light chain variable region), or its complement.Hybridizing nucleic acids of the type described herein can be used, forexample, as a cloning probe, a primer, e.g., a PCR primer, or adiagnostic probe.

Some embodiments include isolated polynucleotides including sequencesthat encode an antibody or antibody fragment having the heavy chainvariable region amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, at least 90%,at least 95%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to the amino acidsequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ IDNO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ IDNO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, or SEQ ID NO: 40. Someembodiments include isolated polynucleotides including sequences thatencode an antibody or antibody fragment having the light chain variabledomain amino acid sequence that is at least 80%, at least 90%, at least95%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to the amino acid sequenceof any of SEQ ID NO: 5 to 8, SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, or SEQ IDNO:36.

In one aspect, the isolated polynucleotide sequence(s) encodes anantibody or antibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and alight chain variable region, each including an amino acid sequence thatis at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 98%, or at least99% identical to the amino acid sequence of an antibody or antibodyfragment having a heavy chain variable domain and a light chain variableregion comprising the amino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:27 and SEQ IDNO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:28 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ IDNO:29 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:30 and SEQ ID NO:26,respectively; SEQ ID NO:32 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:33and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:34 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:35 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:37and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:38 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively; SEQ ID NO:39 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively SEQ ID NO:40and SEQ ID NO: 36, respectively.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a polynucleotide in theembodiment described immediately above, wherein the heavy chain variabledomain and the light chain variable region of the encoded antibody orantibody fragment includes an amino acid sequence that is at least 95%,at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to the amino acid sequence of anantibody or antibody fragment having a heavy chain variable domain and alight chain variable region comprising the amino acid sequences of, inone embodiment, SEQ ID NO:27 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:28 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:29 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:30 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:32 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:33 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:34 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:35 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:38 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:39 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; and in anotherembodiment, SEQ ID NO:40 and SEQ ID NO: 36, respectively.

As used herein, the terms “identical” or “percent identity,” in thecontext of two or more nucleic acids or polypeptide sequences, refer totwo or more sequences or subsequences that are the same or have aspecified percentage of nucleotides or amino acid residues that are thesame, when compared and aligned for maximum correspondence. To determinethe percent identity, the sequences are aligned for optimal comparisonpurposes (e.g., gaps can be introduced in the sequence of a first aminoacid or nucleic acid sequence for optimal alignment with a second aminoor nucleic acid sequence). The amino acid residues or nucleotides atcorresponding amino acid positions or nucleotide positions are thencompared. When a position in the first sequence is occupied by the sameamino acid residue or nucleotide as the corresponding position in thesecond sequence, then the molecules are identical at that position. Thepercent identity between the two sequences is a function of the numberof identical positions shared by the sequences (i.e., % identity=# ofidentical positions/total # of positions (e.g., overlappingpositions)×100). In some embodiments, the two sequences that arecompared are the same length after gaps are introduced within thesequences, as appropriate (e.g., excluding additional sequence extendingbeyond the sequences being compared). For example, when variable regionsequences are compared, the leader and/or constant domain sequences arenot considered. For sequence comparisons between two sequences, a“corresponding” CDR refers to a CDR in the same location in bothsequences (e.g., CDR-H1 of each sequence).

The determination of percent identity or percent similarity between twosequences can be accomplished using a mathematical algorithm. Apreferred, non-limiting example of a mathematical algorithm utilized forthe comparison of two sequences is the algorithm of Karlin and Altschul,1990, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 87:2264-2268, modified as in Karlin andAltschul, 1993, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90:5873-5877. Such analgorithm is incorporated into the NBLAST and XBLAST programs ofAltschul et al., 1990, J. Mol. Biol. 215:403-410. BLAST nucleotidesearches can be performed with the NBLAST program, score=100,wordlength=12, to obtain nucleotide sequences homologous to a nucleicacid encoding a protein of interest. BLAST protein searches can beperformed with the XBLAST program, score=50, wordlength=3, to obtainamino acid sequences homologous to protein of interest. To obtain gappedalignments for comparison purposes, Gapped BLAST can be utilized asdescribed in Altschul et al., 1997, Nucleic Acids Res. 25:3389-3402.Alternatively, PSI-Blast can be used to perform an iterated search whichdetects distant relationships between molecules (Id.). When utilizingBLAST, Gapped BLAST, and PSI-Blast programs, the default parameters ofthe respective programs (e.g., XBLAST and NBLAST) can be used. Anotherpreferred, non-limiting example of a mathematical algorithm utilized forthe comparison of sequences is the algorithm of Myers and Miller, CABIOS(1989). Such an algorithm is incorporated into the ALIGN program(version 2.0) which is part of the GCG sequence alignment softwarepackage. When utilizing the ALIGN program for comparing amino acidsequences, a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap length penalty of 12,and a gap penalty of 4 can be used. Additional algorithms for sequenceanalysis are known in the art and include ADVANCE and ADAM as describedin Torellis and Robotti, 1994, Comput. Appl. Biosci. 10:3-5; and FASTAdescribed in Pearson and Lipman, 1988, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA85:2444-8. Within FASTA, ktup is a control option that sets thesensitivity and speed of the search. If ktup=2, similar regions in thetwo sequences being compared are found by looking at pairs of alignedresidues; if ktup=1, single aligned amino acids are examined. ktup canbe set to 2 or 1 for protein sequences, or from 1 to 6 for DNAsequences. The default if ktup is not specified is 2 for proteins and 6for DNA. Alternatively, protein sequence alignment may be carried outusing the CLUSTAL W algorithm, as described by Higgins et al., 1996,Methods Enzymol. 266:383-402.

Non-Therapeutic Uses

The antibodies described herein are useful as affinity purificationagents. In this process, the antibodies are immobilized on a solid phasesuch a Protein A resin, using methods well known in the art. Theimmobilized antibody is contacted with a sample containing the CD40protein (or fragment thereof) to be purified, and thereafter the supportis washed with a suitable solvent that will remove substantially all thematerial in the sample except the CD40 protein, which is bound to theimmobilized antibody. Finally, the support is washed with anothersuitable solvent that will release the CD40 protein from the antibody.

Humanized anti-CD40 antibodies are also useful in diagnostic assays todetect and/or quantify CD40 protein, for example, detecting CD40expression in specific cells, tissues, or serum.

It will be advantageous in some embodiments, for example, for diagnosticpurposes to label the antibody with a detectable moiety. Numerousdetectable labels are available, including radioisotopes, fluorescentlabels, enzyme substrate labels and the like. The label may beindirectly conjugated with the antibody using various known techniques.For example, the antibody can be conjugated with biotin and any of thethree broad categories of labels mentioned above can be conjugated withavidin, or vice versa. Biotin binds selectively to avidin and thus, thelabel can be conjugated with the antibody in this indirect manner.Alternatively, to achieve indirect conjugation of the label with theantibody, the antibody can be conjugated with a small hapten (such asdigoxin) and one of the different types of labels mentioned above isconjugated with an anti-hapten antibody (e.g., anti-digoxin antibody).Thus, indirect conjugation of the label with the antibody can beachieved.

Exemplary radioisotopes labels include ³⁵S, ¹⁴C, ¹²⁵I, ³H, and ¹³¹I. Theantibody can be labeled with the radioisotope, using the techniquesdescribed in, for example, Current Protocols in Immunology, Volumes 1and 2, 1991, Coligen et al., Ed. Wiley-Interscience, New York, N.Y.,Pubs. Radioactivity can be measured, for example, by scintillationcounting.

Exemplary fluorescent labels include labels derived from rare earthchelates (europium chelates) or fluorescein and its derivatives,rhodamine and its derivatives, dansyl, Lissamine, phycoerythrin, andTexas Red are available. The fluorescent labels can be conjugated to theantibody via known techniques, such as those disclosed in CurrentProtocols in Immunology, supra, for example. Fluorescence can bequantified using a fluorimeter.

There are various well-characterized enzyme-substrate labels known inthe art (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,275,149 for a review). The enzymegenerally catalyzes a chemical alteration of the chromogenic substratethat can be measured using various techniques. For example, alterationmay be a color change in a substrate that can be measuredspectrophotometrically. Alternatively, the enzyme may alter thefluorescence or chemiluminescence of the substrate. Techniques forquantifying a change in fluorescence are described above. Thechemiluminescent substrate becomes electronically excited by a chemicalreaction and may then emit light that can be measured, using achemiluminometer, for example, or donates energy to a fluorescentacceptor.

Examples of enzymatic labels include luciferases such as fireflyluciferase and bacterial luciferase (U.S. Pat. No. 4,737,456),luciferin, 2,3-dihydrophthalazinediones, malate dehydrogenase, urease,peroxidase such as horseradish peroxidase (HRPO), alkaline phosphatase,β-galactosidase, glucoamylase, lysozyme, saccharide oxidases (such asglucose oxidase, galactose oxidase, and glucose-6-phosphatedehydrogenase), heterocyclic oxidases (such as uricase and xanthineoxidase), lactoperoxidase, microperoxidase, and the like. Techniques forconjugating enzymes to antibodies are described, for example, inO'Sullivan et al., 1981, Methods for the Preparation of Enzyme-AntibodyConjugates for use in Enzyme Immunoassay, in Methods in Enzym. (J.Langone & H. Van Vunakis, eds.), Academic press, N.Y., 73: 147-166.

Examples of enzyme-substrate combinations include, for example:Horseradish peroxidase (HRPO) with hydrogen peroxidase as a substrate,wherein the hydrogen peroxidase oxidizes a dye precursor such asorthophenylene diamine (OPD) or 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyl benzidinehydrochloride (TMB); alkaline phosphatase (AP) with para-Nitrophenylphosphate as chromogenic substrate; and β-D-galactosidase (β-D-Gal) witha chromogenic substrate such as p-nitrophenyl-β-D-galactosidase orfluorogenic substrate 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D-galactosidase.

Numerous other enzyme-substrate combinations are available to thoseskilled in the art. For a general review of these, see U.S. Pat. Nos.4,275,149 and 4,318,980.

In another embodiment, the humanized anti-CD40 antibody is usedunlabeled and detected with a labeled antibody that binds the humanizedanti-CD40 antibody.

The antibodies described herein may be employed in any known assaymethod, such as competitive binding assays, direct and indirect sandwichassays, and immunoprecipitation assays. See, e.g., Zola, MonoclonalAntibodies: A Manual of Techniques, pp. 147-158 (CRC Press, Inc. 1987).

Diagnostic Kits

A humanized anti-CD40 antibody can be used in a diagnostic kit, i.e., apackaged combination of reagents in predetermined amounts withinstructions for performing the diagnostic assay. Where the antibody islabeled with an enzyme, the kit may include substrates and cofactorsrequired by the enzyme such as a substrate precursor that provides thedetectable chromophore or fluorophore. In addition, other additives maybe included such as stabilizers, buffers (for example a block buffer orlysis buffer), and the like. The relative amounts of the variousreagents may be varied widely to provide for concentrations in solutionof the reagents that substantially optimize the sensitivity of theassay. The reagents may be provided as dry powders, usually lyophilized,including excipients that on dissolution will provide a reagent solutionhaving the appropriate concentration.

Therapeutic Uses

In another embodiment, a humanized anti-CD40 antibody disclosed hereinis useful in the treatment of various disorders associated with theexpression of CD40 as described herein.

The humanized anti-CD40 antibody or agent is administered by anysuitable means, including parenteral, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal,intrapulmonary, and intranasal, and, if desired for localimmunosuppressive treatment, intralesional administration (includingperfusing or otherwise contacting the graft with the antibody beforetransplantation). The humanized anti-CD40 antibody or agent can beadministered, for example, as an infusion or as a bolus. Parenteralinfusions include intramuscular, intravenous, intraarterial,intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous administration. In addition, thehumanized anti-CD40 antibody is suitably administered by pulse infusion,particularly with declining doses of the antibody. In one aspect, thedosing is given by injections, most preferably intravenous orsubcutaneous injections, depending in part on whether the administrationis brief or chronic.

For the prevention or treatment of disease, the appropriate dosage ofantibody will depend on a variety of factors such as the type of diseaseto be treated, as defined above, the severity and course of the disease,whether the antibody is administered for preventive or therapeuticpurposes, previous therapy, the patient's clinical history and responseto the antibody, and the discretion of the attending physician. Theantibody is suitably administered to the patient at one time or over aseries of treatments.

Depending on the type and severity of the disease, about 1 μg/kg to 20mg/kg (e.g., 0.1-15 mg/kg) of antibody is an initial candidate dosagefor administration to the patient, whether, for example, by one or moreseparate administrations, or by continuous infusion. A typical dailydosage might range from about 1 μg/kg to 100 mg/kg or more, depending onthe factors mentioned above. For repeated administrations over severaldays or longer, depending on the condition, the treatment is sustaineduntil a desired suppression of disease symptoms occurs. However, otherdosage regimens may be useful. The progress of this therapy is easilymonitored by conventional techniques and assays. An exemplary dosingregimen is that disclosed in WO 94/04188.

The term “suppression” is used herein in the same context as“amelioration” and “alleviation” to mean a lessening of one or morecharacteristics of the disease.

The antibody composition will be formulated, dosed, and administered ina fashion consistent with good medical practice. Factors forconsideration in this context include the particular disorder beingtreated, the particular mammal being treated, the clinical condition ofthe individual patient, the cause of the disorder, the site of deliveryof the agent, the method of administration, the scheduling ofadministration, and other factors known to medical practitioners. The“therapeutically effective amount” of the antibody to be administeredwill be governed by such considerations, and is the minimum amountnecessary to prevent, ameliorate, or treat the disorder associated withCD40 expression.

The antibody need not be, but is optionally, formulated with one or moreagents currently used to prevent or treat the disorder in question. Theeffective amount of such other agents depends on the amount of humanizedanti-CD40 antibody present in the formulation, the type of disorder ortreatment, and other factors discussed above. These are generally usedin the same dosages and with administration routes as used hereinbeforeor about from 1 to 99% of the heretofore employed dosages.

CD40-Associated Disorders

The anti-CD40 antibodies or agents are useful for treating or preventinga CD40-expressing cancer or an immunological disorder characterized byexpression of CD40, e.g., by inappropriate activation of immune cells(e.g., lymphocytes or dendritic cells). Such expression of CD40 can bedue to, for example, increased CD40 protein levels on the cells surfaceand/or altered antigenicity of the expressed CD40. Treatment orprevention of the immunological disorder, according to the methodsdescribed herein, is achieved by administering to a subject in need ofsuch treatment or prevention an effective amount of the anti-CD40antibody or agent, whereby the antibody (i) binds to activated immunecells that express CD40 and that are associated with the disease stateand (ii) exerts a cytotoxic, cytostatic, or immunosuppressive effect onthe activated immune cells.

Immunological diseases that are characterized by inappropriateactivation of immune cells and that can be treated or prevented by themethods described herein can be classified, for example, by the type(s)of hypersensitivity reaction(s) that underlie the disorder. Thesereactions are typically classified into four types: anaphylacticreactions, cytotoxic (cytolytic) reactions, immune complex reactions, orcell-mediated immunity (CMI) reactions (also referred to as delayed-typehypersensitivity (DTH) reactions). (See, e.g., Fundamental Immunology(William E. Paul ed., Raven Press, N.Y., 3rd ed. 1993).)

Specific examples of such immunological diseases include the following:rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune demyelinative diseases (e.g., multiplesclerosis, allergic encephalomyelitis), endocrine ophthalmopathy,uveoretinitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, myasthenia gravis, Grave'sdisease, glomerulonephritis, autoimmune hepatological disorder,inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease or ulcerativecolitis), anaphylaxis, allergic reaction, Sjogren's syndrome, type Idiabetes mellitus, primary biliary cirrhosis, Wegener's granulomatosis,fibromyalgia, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, inflammatory myositis,multiple endocrine failure, Schmidt's syndrome, autoimmune uveitis,Addison's disease, adrenalitis, thyroiditis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis,autoimmune thyroid disease, pernicious anemia, gastric atrophy, chronichepatitis, lupoid hepatitis, atherosclerosis, subacute cutaneous lupuserythematosus, hypoparathyroidism, Dressler's syndrome, autoimmunethrombocytopenia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic anemia,pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus, dermatitis herpetiformis, alopeciaarcata, pemphigoid, scleroderma, progressive systemic sclerosis, CRESTsyndrome (calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility,sclerodactyl), and telangiectasia), male and female autoimmuneinfertility, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, mixedconnective tissue disease, polyarteritis nedosa, systemic necrotizingvasculitis, atopic dermatitis, atopic rhinitis, Goodpasture's syndrome,Chagas' disease, sarcoidosis, rheumatic fever, asthma, recurrentabortion, anti-phospholipid syndrome, farmer's lung, erythemamultiforme, post cardiotomy syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, autoimmunechronic active hepatitis, bird-fancier's lung, toxic epidermalnecrolysis, Alport's syndrome, alveolitis, allergic alveolitis,fibrosing alveolitis, interstitial lung disease, erythema nodosum,pyoderma gangrenosum, transfusion reaction, Takayasu's arteritis,polymyalgia rheumatica, temporal arteritis, schistosomiasis, giant cellarteritis, ascariasis, aspergillosis, Sampter's syndrome, eczema,lymphomatoid granulomatosis, Behcet's disease, Caplan's syndrome,Kawasaki's disease, dengue, encephalomyelitis, endocarditis,endomyocardial fibrosis, endophthalmitis, erythema elevatum et diutinum,psoriasis, erythroblastosis fetalis, eosinophilic fasciitis, Shulman'ssyndrome, Felty's syndrome, filariasis, cyclitis, chronic cyclitis,heterochronic cyclitis, Fuch's cyclitis, IgA nephropathy,Henoch-Schonlein purpura, graft versus host disease, transplantationrejection, cardiomyopathy, Eaton-Lambert syndrome, relapsingpolychondritis, cryoglobulinemia, Waldenstrom's macroglobulemia, Evan'ssyndrome, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary inflammation,osteoporosis, delayed type hypersensitivity and autoimmune gonadalfailure.

Accordingly, the methods described herein encompass treatment ofdisorders of B lymphocytes (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus,Goodpasture's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and type I diabetes),Th₁-lymphocytes (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis,psoriasis, Sjorgren's syndrome, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Grave'sdisease, primary biliary cirrhosis, Wegener's granulomatosis,tuberculosis, or graft versus host disease), or Th₂-lymphocytes (e.g.,atopic dermatitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, atopic asthma,rhinoconjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, Omenn's syndrome, systemicsclerosis, or chronic graft versus host disease). Generally, disordersinvolving dendritic cells involve disorders of Th₁-lymphocytes orTh₂-lymphocytes.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common inflammatoryautoimmune diseases affecting approximately 1% of the population. Whileefficacious treatments (e.g. MTX and the anti-TNF agents) are available,there exists great unmet medical need, especially for those patients whodo not adequately respond to anti-TNF therapies (about 30% of patients).In addition, up to 50% of patients discontinue TNF-antagonist treatmentwithin 5 years, mainly due to adverse events but also because anincreasingly recognized number of patients lose therapeutic benefit. Itis thus important to establish effective therapies that targetinflammation and joint destruction in RA but do not rely solely on thedirect inhibition of TNF. A very attractive approach is to targetco-stimulatory cell pathways. One of the key receptor-ligand pairs incostimulation is CD40/CD40L. This system allows interactions betweenimmune cells, and between immune and non-immune cells, all of which areimportant in the pathogenesis of RA. Blockade of CD40 with anantagonistic antibody of the present invention may have one of more ofthe following effect in RA:

1) Inhibit B cell differentiation and antibody isotype switching;

2) Inhibit cytokine and chemokine production and up-regulation ofadhesion molecules in T-cells and macrophages;

3) Inhibit the activation of dendritic cells and

4) Inhibit production of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, matrixmetalloproteinases, prostaglandins, and down-regulate adhesion moleculesin non-immune cells (e.g. epithelial, endothelial and mesenchymalcells).

Methods of achieving one of more of the above effects are expresslycontemplated herein. In addition to RA, the compositions of the presentinvention will be particularly useful in methods of treatment ofMultiple Sclerosis, Psoriasis (including Psoriatic Arthritis), JuvenileRheumatoid Arthritis. Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Systemic LupusErythematosus, and Solid Organ Transplantation.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease witha prevalence of approximately 1% in adults. The disease continues tocause significant morbidity and premature mortality (mortality ispredominantly due to accelerated cardiovascular disease). It has nowbeen identified that joint damage occurs very early in the course of thedisease with up to 30% of patients showing radiographic evidence of bonyerosions at the time of diagnosis, increasing to 60% after 1 year.Current guidelines recommend initiating therapy with traditionaldisease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) within 3 months after adefinite diagnosis has been established. DMARDs have the potential toreduce or prevent joint damage and preserve joint function. Currently,rheumatologists select methotrexate (MTX) as the initial DMARD therapyfor most patients.

The TNF-antagonists etanercept (Enbrel®), infliximab (Remicade®),adalimumab (Humira®), the CTLA4-antagonist abatacept (Orencia®), theanti-IL-6 receptor mAb tocilizumab and the anti-CD20 mAb rituximab(Rituxan®) are efficacious in the treatment of RA. Current guidelinesgenerally recommend using biologic DMARDs for the treatment of active RAafter an inadequate response to traditional DMARDs.

Recent studies in patients with early aggressive RA without previous MTXtreatment showed that the combination of MTX with a TNF-antagonist wassuperior to each when used as monotherapy. The most striking result wasthe significant radiological benefit of the combination therapy. Thus,the combination of MTX and TNF-inhibitors should be used in patients atgreatest risk for aggressive disease and aggressive phenotype (e.g. highactivity score, functional impairment, seropositivity for rheumatoidfactor (RF) or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (CCP),elevated CRP, radiographic erosions). However, we anticipate that inclinical practice it will be rare that TNF-antagonists will be used as afirst-line therapy. A survey of US rheumatologists conducted in April2005 showed that the factors that most influence the decision to use aTNF-antagonist were: failure of MTX or multiple DMARDs, physician globalassessment, functional impairment, and radiographic worsening orerosions. Currently, an estimated 20% of patients with RA receiveTNF-inhibitor therapy in the US.

A substantial percentage of RA patients are not adequately helped withthe current treatments including biologic therapies, either because ofdrug intolerance and toxicity or lack of response. Up to 50% of patientsdiscontinue TNF-antagonist treatment within 5 years, mainly due toadverse events but also because an increasingly recognized number ofpatients lose their response.

In some embodiments, the immunological disorder is a T cell-mediatedimmunological disorder, such as a T cell disorder in which activated Tcells associated with the disorder express CD40. Anti-CD40 antibodies oragents can be administered to deplete such CD40-expressing activated Tcells. In a specific embodiment, administration of anti-CD40 antibodiesor agents can deplete CD40-expressing activated T cells, while resting Tcells are not substantially depleted by the anti-CD40 or agent. In thiscontext, “not substantially depleted” means that less than about 60%, orless than about 70% or less than about 80% of resting T cells are notdepleted.

The anti-CD40 antibodies and agents as described herein are also usefulfor treating or preventing a CD40-expressing cancer. Treatment orprevention of a CD40-expressing cancer, according to the methodsdescribed herein, is achieved by administering to a subject in need ofsuch treatment or prevention an effective amount of the anti-CD40antibody or agent, whereby the antibody or agent (i) binds toCD40-expressing cancer cells and (ii) exerts a cytotoxic or cytostaticeffect to deplete or inhibit the proliferation of the CD40-expressingcancer cells.

CD40-expressing cancers that can be treated or prevented by the methodsdescribed herein include, for example, leukemia, such as acute leukemia,acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myelocytic leukemia (e.g.,myeloblastic, promyelocytic, myelomonocytic, monocytic, orerythroleukemia), chronic leukemia, chronic myelocytic (granulocytic)leukemia, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia; Polycythemia vera; Lymphoma(e.g., Hodgkin's disease or Non-Hodgkin's disease); multiple myeloma,Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia; heavy chain disease; solid tumors suchsarcomas and carcinomas (e.g., fibrosarcoma, myxosarcoma, liposarcoma,chondrosarcoma, osteogenic sarcoma, osteosarcoma, chordoma,angiosarcoma, endotheliosarcoma, lymphangiosarcoma,lymphangioendotheliosarcoma, synovioma, mesothelioma, Ewing's tumor,leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, colon carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma,pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer,squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, sweatgland carcinoma, sebaceous gland carcinoma, papillary carcinoma,papillary adenocarcinomas, cystadenocarcinoma, medullary carcinoma,bronchogenic carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, hepatoma, bile ductcarcinoma, choriocarcinoma, seminoma, embryonal carcinoma, Wilms' tumor,cervical cancer, uterine cancer, testicular tumor, lung carcinoma, smallcell lung carcinoma, non small cell lung carcinoma, bladder carcinoma,epithelial carcinoma, glioma, astrocytoma, medulloblastoma,craniopharyngioma, ependymoma, pinealoma, hemangioblastoma, acousticneuroma, oligodendroglioma, menangioma, melanoma, neuroblastoma,retinoblastoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, or esophageal carcinoma).

Pharmaceutical Compositions and Administration Thereof

A composition comprising a CD40 binding agent (e.g., an anti-CD40antibody) can be administered to a subject having or at risk of havingan immunological disorder or a CD40-expressing cancer. The inventionfurther provides for the use of a CD40 binding agent (e.g., an anti-CD40antibody) in the manufacture of a medicament for prevention or treatmentof a CD40 expressing cancer or immunological disorder. The term“subject” as used herein means any mammalian patient to which aCD40-binding agent can be administered, including, e.g., humans andnon-human mammals, such as primates, rodents, and dogs. Subjectsspecifically intended for treatment using the methods described hereininclude humans. The antibodies or agents can be administered eitheralone or in combination with other compositions in the prevention ortreatment of the immunological disorder or CD40-expressing cancer.

Preferred antibodies for use in such pharmaceutical compositions arethose that comprise humanized antibody or antibody fragment having theheavy chain variable region amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1to 4, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ IDNO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ IDNO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, or SEQ ID NO: 40.

Some embodiments include isolated polynucleotides comprising sequencesthat encode an antibody or antibody fragment having the light chainvariable domain amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, orSEQ ID NO:36. Particularly preferred humanized antibodies compositionscomprise an antibody or antibody fragment having a heavy chain variabledomain and a light chain variable region comprising the amino acidsequences of SEQ ID NO:27 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:28and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:29 and SEQ ID NO:26,respectively; SEQ ID NO:30 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:32and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:33 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:34 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:35and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively; SEQ ID NO:38 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:39and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:40 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively. Contemplated within the present invention are isolatedpolynucleotides that encode any of the heavy chain sequences of SEQ IDNO: 1 to 4, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ IDNO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, SEQ ID NO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 44, SEQ IDNO: 46, SEQ ID NO: 48, SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQ ID NO: 57, SEQ ID NO: 58, SEQID NO: 59, SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61, SEQ ID NO: 62, SEQ ID NO: 63,SEQ ID NO: 64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO: 67, SEQ ID NO:68, SEQ ID NO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ ID NO: 71, SEQ ID NO: 72, or SEQID NO: 73. Other embodiments are directed to isolated nucleic acids thatencode a light chain sequence of any of sequences of SEQ ID NO: 5 to SEQID NO:8, SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ IDNO:43, SEQ ID NO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ IDNO:51, SEQ ID NO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:55, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ IDNO:74, SEQ ID NO:75, or SEQ ID NO:76.

In certain embodiments, where the treatment of RA is contemplated, thecompositions of the invention may be used in methods for reducing signsand symptoms, inducing a major clinical response and reducing theprogression of structural damage in patients with moderately to severelyactive RA who do not respond adequately to MTX alone. A currentexemplary such therapy is: Enbrel/Humira (Data with Humira and Enbrelwere obtained in two different patient populations). The compositions ofthe present invention may be used instead of an Enbrel/Humira therapy orin combination with Enbrel/Humira therapy for subjects that do notrespond to MTX alone. Preferably, in such embodiments, the compositionsof the invention will have a superior efficacy to Enbrel+MTX in patientswho have had an inadequate response to methotrexate as determined forexample by: ACR20 at 6 months >85% for compound plus MTX (GS: Enbrel+MTX71% vs. Placebo+MTX 27%, Humira+MTX at 12 mos 59% vs. Placebo+MTX 24%)*.Additional criteria for superior efficacy of the compositions of theinvention may include: Inhibition of progression of structural damageover a period of one year similar to Enbrel (after 52 weeks meanmodified Sharp score Humira+MTX 0.1 vs. Placebo+MTX 2.7)*. In stillother embodiments, the compositions produce a “Major Clinical Response”superior to Enbrel in patients that have had an inadequate response tomethotrexate as measured by ACR70 (20% for Humira+MTX, 4% forPlacebo+MTX)*.

In other embodiments, the compositions of the invention may be indicatedfor reducing signs and symptoms, inducing a major clinical response andreducing the progression of structural damage in patients withmoderately to severely active RA who have had an inadequate response toanti-TNF agents. The current Gold standard: non-anti-TNF biologictherapy. Preferably, in such subjects the compositions of the inventionpossess non-inferior efficacy compared to non-anti-TNF biological (e.g.Orencia, Rituxan) by historical comparison in patients who have had aninadequate response to an anti-TNF agent: ACR20 at 6 months >50% forcompound plus DMARD (GS: Orencia+DMARD 50% vs. placebo+DMARD 20%). Instill other embodiments, the compositions of the invention inhibitprogression of structural damage over a period of one year assessed byaccepted X-ray scoring methods for joint erosion and joint spacenarrowing, similar to Rituxan (after 52 weeks mean modified Sharp scoreRituxan+MTX 1.0 vs. Placebo+MTX 2.31).

Various delivery systems are known and can be used to administer theCD40 binding agent. Methods of introduction include but are not limitedto intradermal, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, intravenous,subcutaneous, intranasal, epidural, and oral routes. The CD40 bindingagent can be administered, for example by infusion, bolus or injection,and can be administered together with other biologically active agentssuch as chemotherapeutic agents. Administration can be systemic orlocal. In preferred embodiments, the administration is by subcutaneousinjection. Formulations for such injections may be prepared in forexample prefilled syringes that may be administered once every otherweek.

The safety characteristics of the antibodies of the invention will bedetermined and preferably include one or more features such as: noclinically significant adverse interactions with other medicationscommonly used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis (e.g. DMARDs, Steroids,NSAIDs); No greater rate of discontinuations due to safety ortolerability issues compared to Enbrel; Rate of serious infections nogreater than anti-TNF agents or other commonly used biologic agents;Frequency and/or severity of injection site reactions or infusionreaction similar to Enbrel; No or minimal development of drug resistance(less than 5%) upon repeat cycles of therapy; No or minimal neutralizingantibodies; No evidence of enhanced platelet aggregation/activation thatcould lead to thromboembolic events in vivo or platelet/endothelialdysfunction that could lead to bleeding.

In specific embodiments, the CD40 binding agent composition isadministered by injection, by means of a catheter, by means of asuppository, or by means of an implant, the implant being of a porous,non-porous, or gelatinous material, including a membrane, such as asialastic membrane, or a fiber. Typically, when administering thecomposition, materials to which the anti-CD40 antibody or agent does notabsorb are used.

In other embodiments, the anti-CD40 antibody or agent is delivered in acontrolled release system. In one embodiment, a pump may be used (see,e.g., Langer, 1990, Science 249:1527-1533; Sefton, 1989, CRC Crit. Ref.Biomed. Eng. 14:201; Buchwald et al., 1980, Surgery 88:507; Saudek etal., 1989, N. Engl. J. Med. 321:574). In another embodiment, polymericmaterials can be used. (See, e.g., Medical Applications of ControlledRelease (Langer and Wise eds., CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fla., 1974);Controlled Drug Bioavailability, Drug Product Design and Performance(Smolen and Ball eds., Wiley, New York, 1984); Ranger and Peppas, 1983,Macromol. Sci. Rev. Macromol. Chem. 23:61. See also Levy et al., 1985,Science 228:190; During et al., 1989, Ann. Neurol. 25:351; Howard etal., 1989, J. Neurosurg. 71:105.) Other controlled release systems arediscussed, for example, in Langer, supra.

A CD40 binding agent (e.g., an anti-CD40 antibody) can be administeredas pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutically effectiveamount of the binding agent and one or more pharmaceutically compatibleingredients.

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated inaccordance with routine procedures as a pharmaceutical compositionadapted for intravenous or subcutaneous administration to human beings.Typically, compositions for administration by injection are solutions insterile isotonic aqueous buffer. Where necessary, the pharmaceutical canalso include a solubilizing agent and a local anesthetic such aslignocaine to ease pain at the site of the injection. Generally, theingredients are supplied either separately or mixed together in unitdosage form, for example, as a dry lyophilized powder or water freeconcentrate in a hermetically sealed container such as an ampoule orsachette indicating the quantity of active agent. Where thepharmaceutical is to be administered by infusion, it can be dispensedwith an infusion bottle containing sterile pharmaceutical grade water orsaline. Where the pharmaceutical is administered by injection, anampoule of sterile water for injection or saline can be provided so thatthe ingredients can be mixed prior to administration.

Further, the pharmaceutical composition can be provided as apharmaceutical kit comprising (a) a container containing a CD40 bindingagent (e.g., an anti-CD40 antibody) in lyophilized form and (b) a secondcontainer containing a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent (e.g.,sterile water) for injection. The pharmaceutically acceptable diluentcan be used for reconstitution or dilution of the lyophilized anti-CD40antibody or agent. Optionally associated with such container(s) can be anotice in the form prescribed by a governmental agency regulating themanufacture, use or sale of pharmaceuticals or biological products,which notice reflects approval by the agency of manufacture, use or salefor human administration.

The amount of the CD40 binding agent (e.g., anti-CD40 antibody) that iseffective in the treatment or prevention of an immunological disorder orCD40-expressing cancer can be determined by standard clinicaltechniques. In addition, in vitro assays may optionally be employed tohelp identify optimal dosage ranges. The precise dose to be employed inthe formulation will also depend on the route of administration, and thestage of immunological disorder or CD40-expressing cancer, and should bedecided according to the judgment of the practitioner and each patient'scircumstances. Effective doses may be extrapolated from dose-responsecurves derived from in vitro or animal model test systems.

For example, toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of the anti-CD40 antibodyor agent can be determined in cell cultures or experimental animals bystandard pharmaceutical procedures for determining the ED₅₀ (the dosetherapeutically effective in 50% of the population). A CD40-bindingagent (e.g., an anti-CD40 antibody) that exhibits a large therapeuticindex is preferred. Where a CD40-binding agent exhibits toxic sideeffects, a delivery system that targets the CD40-binding agent to thesite of affected tissue can be used to minimize potential damagenon-CD40-expressing cells and, thereby, reduce side effects.

The data obtained from the cell culture assays and animal studies can beused in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. The dosage ofthe CD40 binding agent typically lies within a range of circulatingconcentrations that include the ED₅₀ with little or no toxicity. Thedosage may vary within this range depending upon the dosage formemployed and the route of administration utilized. For any CD40 bindingagent used in the method, the therapeutically effective dose can beestimated initially from cell culture assays. A dose can be formulatedin animal models to achieve a circulating plasma concentration rangethat includes the IC₅₀ (i.e., the concentration of the test compoundthat achieves a half-maximal inhibition of symptoms) as determined incell culture. Such information can be used to more accurately determineuseful doses in humans. Levels in plasma can be measured, for example,by high performance liquid chromatography, ELISA and the like.

Generally, the dosage of an anti-CD40 antibody or CD40 binding agentadministered to a patient with an immunological disorder orCD40-expressing cancer is typically about 0.1 mg/kg to about 100 mg/kgof the subject's body weight. The dosage administered to a subject isabout 0.1 mg/kg to about 50 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg to about 30 mg/kg,about 1 mg/kg to about 20 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg to about 15 mg/kg, orabout 1 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kg of the subject's body weight.

Exemplary doses include, but are not limited to, from 1 ng/kg to 100mg/kg. In some embodiments, a dose is about 0.5 mg/kg, about 1 mg/kg,about 2 mg/kg, about 3 mg/kg, about 4 mg/kg, about 5 mg/kg, about 6mg/kg, about 7 mg/kg, about 8 mg/kg, about 9 mg/kg, about 10 mg/kg,about 11 mg/kg, about 12 mg/kg, about 13 mg/kg, about 14 mg/kg, about 15mg/kg or about 16 mg/kg. The dose can be administered, for example,daily, once per week (weekly), twice per week, thrice per week, fourtimes per week, five times per week, six times per week, biweekly ormonthly, every two months, or every three months. In specificembodiments, the dose is about 0.5 mg/kg/week, about 1 mg/kg/week, about2 mg/kg/week, about 3 mg/kg/week, about 4 mg/kg/week, about 5mg/kg/week, about 6 mg/kg/week, about 7 mg/kg/week, about 8 mg/kg/week,about 9 mg/kg/week, about 10 mg/kg/week, about 11 mg/kg/week, about 12mg/kg/week, about 13 mg/kg/week, about 14 mg/kg/week, about 15mg/kg/week or about 16 mg/kg/week. In some embodiments, the dose rangesfrom about 1 mg/kg/week to about 15 mg/kg/week.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions comprising the CD40binding agent can further comprise a therapeutic agent, eitherconjugated or unconjugated to the binding agent. The anti-CD40 antibodyor CD40 binding agent can be co-administered in combination with one ormore therapeutic agents for the treatment or prevention of immunologicaldisorders or CD40-expressing cancers. For example, combination therapycan include a cytostatic, cytotoxic, or immunosuppressive agent.Combination therapy can also include, e.g., administration of an agentthat targets a receptor or receptor complex other than CD40 on thesurface of activated lymphocytes, dendritic cells or CD40-expressingcancer cells. An example of such an agent includes a second, non-CD40antibody that binds to a molecule at the surface of an activatedlymphocyte, dendritic cell or CD40-expressing cancer cell. Anotherexample includes a ligand that targets such a receptor or receptorcomplex. Typically, such an antibody or ligand binds to a cell surfacereceptor on activated lymphocytes, dendritic cell or CD40-expressingcancer cell and enhances the cytotoxic or cytostatic effect of theanti-CD40 antibody by delivering a cytostatic or cytotoxic signal to theactivated lymphocyte, dendritic cell or CD40-expressing cancer cell.

Such combination therapy administration can have an additive orsynergistic effect on disease parameters (e.g., severity of a symptom,the number of symptoms, or frequency of relapse).

With respect to therapeutic regimens for combinatorial administration,in a specific embodiment, an anti-CD40 antibody or CD40 binding agent isadministered concurrently with a therapeutic agent. In another specificembodiment, the therapeutic agent is administered prior or subsequent toadministration of the anti-CD40 antibody or CD40 binding agent, by atleast an hour and up to several months, for example at least an hour,five hours, 12 hours, a day, a week, a month, or three months, prior orsubsequent to administration of the anti-CD40 antibody or CD40 bindingagent.

Useful classes of cytotoxic or immunosuppressive agents include, forexample, antitubulin agents, auristatins (e.g., MMAE, or MMAF), DNAminor groove binders, DNA replication inhibitors, alkylating agents(e.g., platinum complexes such as cis-platin, mono(platinum),bis(platinum) and tri-nuclear platinum complexes and carboplatin),anthracyclines, antibiotics, antifolates, antimetabolites, chemotherapysensitizers, duocarmycins, etoposides, fluorinated pyrimidines,ionophores, lexitropsins, nitrosoureas, platinols, pre-formingcompounds, purine antimetabolites, puromycins, radiation sensitizers,steroids, taxanes, topoisomerase inhibitors, Vinca alkaloids, or thelike.

Individual cytotoxic or immunosuppressive agents include, for example,an androgen, anthramycin (AMC), asparaginase, 5-azacytidine,azathioprine, bleomycin, busulfan, buthionine sulfoximine, camptothecin,carboplatin, carmustine (BSNU), CC-1065, chlorambucil, cisplatin,colchicine, cyclophosphamide, cytarabine, cytidine arabinoside,cytochalasin B, dacarbazine, dactinomycin (formerly actinomycin),daunorubicin, decarbazine, docetaxel, doxorubicin, an estrogen,5-fluorodeoxyuridine, 5-fluorouracil, gramicidin D, hydroxyurea,idarubicin, ifosfamide, irinotecan, lomustine (CCNU), mechlorethamine,melphalan, 6-mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mithramycin, mitomycin C,mitoxantrone, nitroimidazole, paclitaxel, plicamycin, procarbazine,streptozotocin, tenoposide, 6-thioguanine, thioTEPA, topotecan,vinblastine, vincristine, vinorelbine, VP-16 and VM-26.

In some typical embodiments, the therapeutic agent is a cytotoxic agent.Suitable cytotoxic agents include, for example, dolastatins (e.g.,auristatin E, AFP, MMAF, MMAE, AEB or AEVB), DNA minor groove binders(e.g., enediynes and lexitropsins), duocarmycins, taxanes (e.g.,paclitaxel and docetaxel), puromycins, Vinca alkaloids, CC-1065, SN-38,topotecan, morpholino-doxorubicin, rhizoxin,cyanomorpholino-doxorubicin, echinomycin, combretastatin, netropsin,epothilone A and B, estramustine, cryptophysins, cemadotin,maytansinoids, discodermolide, eleutherobin, or mitoxantrone.

In some embodiments, the cytotoxic agent is a conventionalchemotherapeutic such as, for example, doxorubicin, paclitaxel,melphalan, Vinca alkaloids, methotrexate, mitomycin C or etoposide. Inaddition, potent agents such as CC-1065 analogues, calicheamicin,maytansine, analogues of dolastatin 10, rhizoxin, and palytoxin can belinked to the anti-CD40 antibodies or agents thereof.

In specific embodiments, the cytotoxic or cytostatic agent is auristatinE (also known in the art as dolastatin-10) or a derivative thereof.Typically, the auristatin E derivative is, e.g., an ester formed betweenauristatin E and a keto acid. For example, auristatin E can be reactedwith peracetyl benzoic acid or benzoylvaleric acid to produce AEB andAEVB, respectively. Other typical auristatin derivatives include AFP,MMAF, and MMAE. The synthesis and structure of auristatin E and itsderivatives are described in, for example, U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication Nos. 2004-0157782 A1 and 2005-0238649; International PatentApplication No. PCT/US03/24209, International Patent Application No.PCT/US02/13435, and U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,884,869; 6,323,315; 6,239,104;6,034,065; 5,780,588; 5,665,860; 5,663,149; 5,635,483; 5,599,902;5,554,725; 5,530,097; 5,521,284; 5,504,191; 5,410,024; 5,138,036;5,076,973; 4,986,988; 4,978,744; 4,879,278; 4,816,444; and 4,486,414;the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.

In specific embodiments, the cytotoxic agent is a DNA minor groovebinding agent. (See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,130,237.) For example, insome embodiments, the minor groove binding agent is a CBI compound. Inother embodiments, the minor groove binding agent is an enediyne (e.g.,calicheamicin).

Examples of anti-tubulin agents include, but are not limited to, taxanes(e.g., Taxol® (paclitaxel), Taxotere® (docetaxel)), T67 (Tularik), Vincaalkyloids (e.g., vincristine, vinblastine, vindesine, and vinorelbine),and dolastatins (e.g., auristatin E, AFP, MMAF, MMAE, AEB, AEVB). Otherantitubulin agents include, for example, baccatin derivatives, taxaneanalogs (e.g., epothilone A and B), nocodazole, colchicine and colcimid,estramustine, cryptophysins, cemadotin, maytansinoids, combretastatins,discodermolide, and eleutherobin.

In some embodiments, the cytotoxic agent is a maytansinoid, anothergroup of anti-tubulin agents. For example, in specific embodiments, themaytansinoid is maytansine or DM-1 (ImmunoGen, Inc.; see also Chari etal., 1992, Cancer Res. 52:127-131).

In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is not a radioisotope.

In some embodiments, the cytotoxic or immunosuppressive agent is anantimetabolite. The antimetabolite can be, for example, a purineantagonist (e.g., azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil), adihydrofolate reductase inhibitor (e.g., methotrexate), acyclovir,gangcyclovir, zidovudine, vidarabine, ribavarin, azidothymidine,cytidine arabinoside, amantadine, dideoxyuridine, iododeoxyuridine,poscamet, or trifluridine.

In other embodiments, the cytotoxic or immunosuppressive agent istacrolimus, cyclosporine or rapamycin. In further embodiments, thecytotoxic agent is aldesleukin, alemtuzumab, alitretinoin, allopurinol,altretamine, amifostine, anastrozole, arsenic trioxide, bexarotene,bexarotene, calusterone, capecitabine, celecoxib, cladribine,Darbepoetin alfa, Denileukin diftitox, dexrazoxane, dromostanolonepropionate, epirubicin, Epoetin alfa, estramustine, exemestane,Filgrastim, floxuridine, fludarabine, fulvestrant, gemcitabine,gemtuzumab ozogamicin, goserelin, idarubicin, ifosfamide, imatinibmesylate, Interferon alfa-2a, irinotecan, letrozole, leucovorin,levamisole, mechlorethamine or nitrogen mustard, megestrol, mesna,methotrexate, methoxsalen, mitomycin C, mitotane, nandrolonephenpropionate, oprelvekin, oxaliplatin, pamidronate, pegademase,pegaspargase, pegfilgrastim, pentostatin, pipobroman, plicamycin,porfimer sodium, procarbazine, quinacrine, rasburicase, revlimid,Sargramostim, streptozocin, tamoxifen, temozolomide, teniposide,testolactone, thioguanine, toremifene, Tositumomab, Trastuzumab,tretinoin, uracil mustard, valrubicin, vinblastine, vincristine,vinorelbine and zoledronate.

In additional embodiments, the drug is a humanized anti-HER2 monoclonalantibody; RITUXAN (rituximab; Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco,Calif.); a chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody); OVAREX (AltaRexCorporation, MA); PANOREX (Glaxo Wellcome, NC; a murine IgG_(2a)antibody); Cetuximab Erbitux (Imclone Systems Inc., NY; an anti-EGFR IgGchimeric antibody); Vitaxin (MedImmune, Inc., MD); Campath I/H(Leukosite, MA; a humanized IgG1 antibody); Smart MI95 (Protein DesignLabs, Inc., CA; a humanized anti-CD33 IgG antibody); LymphoCide(Immunomedics, Inc., NJ; a humanized anti-CD22 IgG antibody); Smart ID10(Protein Design Labs, Inc., CA; a humanized anti-HLA-DR antibody);Oncolym (Techniclone, Inc., CA; a radiolabeled murine anti-HLA-Dr10antibody); Allomune (BioTransplant, CA; a humanized anti-CD2 mAb);Avastin (Genentech, Inc., CA; an anti-VEGF humanized antibody);Epratuzumab (Immunomedics, Inc., NJ and Amgen, CA; an anti-CD22antibody); and CEAcide (Immunomedics, NJ; a humanized anti-CEAantibody).

Other suitable antibodies include, but are not limited to, antibodiesagainst the following antigens: CA125, CA15-3, CA19-9, L6, Lewis Y,Lewis X, alpha fetoprotein, CA 242, placental alkaline phosphatase,prostate specific antigen, prostatic acid phosphatase, epidermal growthfactor, MAGE-1, MAGE-2, MAGE-3, MAGE-4, anti transferrin receptor, p97,MUC1-KLH, CEA, gp100, MART1, Prostate Specific Antigen, IL-2 receptor,CD20, CD52, CD33, CD22, human chorionic gonadotropin, CD38, mucin, P21,MPG, and Neu oncogene product.

In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is an immunosuppressiveagent. The immunosuppressive agent can be, for example, gancyclovir,etanercept, tacrolimus, cyclosporine, rapamycin, cyclophosphamide,azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil or methotrexate. Alternatively, theimmunosuppressive agent can be, for example, a glucocorticoid (e.g.,cortisol or aldosterone) or a glucocorticoid analogue (e.g., prednisoneor dexamethasone).

Suitable cyclooxygenase inhibitors include meclofenamic acid, mefenamicacid, carprofen, diclofenac, diflunisal, fenbufen, fenoprofen,ibuprofen, indomethacin, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, sulindac,tenoxicam, tolmetin, and acetylsalicylic acid.

Suitable lipoxygenase inhibitors include redox inhibitors (e.g.,catechol butane derivatives, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA),masoprocol, phenidone, lanopalen, indazolinones, naphazatrom,benzofuranol, alkylhydroxylamine), and non-redox inhibitors (e.g.,hydroxythiazoles, methoxyalkylthiazoles, benzopyrans and derivativesthereof, methoxytetrahydropyran, boswellic acids and acetylatedderivatives of boswellic acids, and quinolinemethoxyphenylacetic acidssubstituted with cycloalkyl radicals), and precursors of redoxinhibitors.

Other suitable lipoxygenase inhibitors include antioxidants (e.g.,phenols, propyl gallate, flavonoids and/or naturally occurringsubstrates containing flavonoids, hydroxylated derivatives of theflavones, flavonol, dihydroquercetin, luteolin, galangin, orobol,derivatives of chalcone, 4,2′,4′-trihydroxychalcone, ortho-aminophenols,N-hydroxyureas, benzofuranols, ebselen and species that increase theactivity of the reducing selenoenzymes), iron chelating agents (e.g.,hydroxamic acids and derivatives thereof, N-hydroxyureas,2-benzyl-1-naphthol, catechols, hydroxylamines, carnosol trolox C,catechol, naphthol, sulfasalazine, zyleuton, 5-hydroxyanthranilic acidand 4-(omega-arylalkyl)phenylalkanoic acids), imidazole-containingcompounds (e.g., ketoconazole and itraconazole), phenothiazines, andbenzopyran derivatives.

Yet other suitable lipoxygenase inhibitors include inhibitors ofeicosanoids (e.g., octadecatetraenoic, eicosatetraenoic,docosapentaenoic, eicosahexaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids and estersthereof, PGE1 (prostaglandin E1), PGA2 (prostaglandin A2), viprostol,15-monohydroxyeicosatetraenoic, 15-monohydroxy-eicosatrienoic and15-monohydroxyeicosapentaenoic acids, and leukotrienes B5, C5 and D5),compounds interfering with calcium flows, phenothiazines,diphenylbutylamines, verapamil, fuscoside, curcumin, chlorogenic acid,caffeic acid, 5,8,11,14-eicosatetrayenoic acid (ETYA),hydroxyphenylretinamide, lonapalen, esculin, diethylcarbamazine,phenantroline, baicalein, proxicromil, thioethers, diallyl sulfide anddi-(1-propenyl) sulfide.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists include calcitriol, ontazolast, BayerBay-x-1005, Ciba-Geigy CGS-25019C, ebselen, Leo Denmark ETH-615, LillyLY-293111, Ono ONO-4057, Terumo TMK-688, Boehringer Ingleheim BI-RM-270,Lilly LY 213024, Lilly LY 264086, Lilly LY 292728, Ono ONO LB457, Pfizer105696, Perdue Frederick PF 10042, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer RP 66153,SmithKline Beecham SB-201146, SmithKline Beecham SB-201993, SmithKlineBeecham SB-209247, Searle SC-53228, Sumitamo SM 15178, American HomeProducts WAY 121006, Bayer Bay-o-8276, Warner-Lambert CI-987,Warner-Lambert CI-987BPC-15LY 223982, Lilly LY 233569, Lilly LY-255283,MacroNex MNX-160, Merck and Co. MK-591, Merck and Co. MK-886, OnoONO-LB-448, Purdue Frederick PF-5901, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer RG 14893,Rhone-Poulenc Rorer RP 66364, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer RP 69698, ShionoogiS-2474, Searle SC-41930, Searle SC-50505, Searle SC-51146, SearleSC-52798, SmithKline Beecham SK and F-104493, Leo Denmark SR-2566,Tanabe T-757 and Teijin TEI-1338.

Articles of Manufacture

In another aspect, an article of manufacture containing materials usefulfor the treatment of the disorders described above is included. Thearticle of manufacture comprises a container and a label. Suitablecontainers include, for example, bottles, vials, syringes, and testtubes. The containers may be formed from a variety of materials such asglass or plastic. The container holds a composition that is effectivefor treating the condition and may have a sterile access port. Forexample, the container may be an intravenous solution bag or a vialhaving a stopper pierceable by a hypodermic injection needle. The activeagent in the composition is the humanized anti-CD40 antibody. The labelon or associated with the container indicates that the composition isused for treating the condition of choice. The article of manufacturemay further comprise a second container comprising apharmaceutically-acceptable buffer, such as phosphate-buffered saline,Ringer's solution, and dextrose solution. It may further include othermaterials desirable from a commercial and user standpoint, includingother buffers, diluents, filters, needles, syringes, and package insertswith instructions for use.

The invention is further described in the following examples, which arenot intended to limit the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLES Example 1: Production of Humanized Anti-CD40 Antibody

Murine antibodies 20E2, and 2H11 are shown in Tables 1 and 2 hereinabove. Humanization of the 20E2, and 2H11 clones has been completed. Alibrary was made where human and murine residues were varied in such away that in any given position there could be either a human or murineresidue. Such a library was made for those amino acids that weredifferent between human germline and murine antibody. Only the clonesthat retain the function of the parent murine antibody were selected.

In this manner, Antibody a, Antibody B and Antibody C were humanizedantibodies derived from mouse antibody 20E2 (Antibody A and Antibody B)or 2H11 (Antibody C) cloned into a human IgG1-KO (KO=knock-out)/kappabackbone. IgG1-KO has two mutations in the Fc region, Leu234Ala andLeu235Ala to reduce FcγR and complement binding.

The results of such humanization resulted in various humanized heavy andlight chain variable sequences shown below:

SEQ ID NO:  41 (variable light chain sequence):DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGERVTMSCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  42(variable heavy chain sequence):EVQLVKSGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGETFSDYGMHWVRQAPGKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 43(variable light chain sequence)DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGERATMSCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  44(variable heavy chain sequence)EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPGKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO:  45(variable light chain sequence)DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGEKVTMNCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGAGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  46(variable heavy chain sequence)EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSRRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPGKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS. SEQ ID NO:  47(variable light chain sequence)DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGERVTMNCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  48(variable heavy chain sequence)EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPGKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO:  49(variable light chain sequence)DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGERVTMNCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGAGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  50(variable light chain sequence)EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSRRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPGKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO:  51(variable light chain sequence)DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGEKVTMNCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDLAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGAGTKVEIK. SEQ ID NO:  52(variable light chain sequence)DIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGEKVTINCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  53(variable heavy chain sequence)EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAPGKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO:  54(variable light chain sequence)QIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQQKPGKAPKLWIYSTSNLASGVPARFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO: 55(variable light chain sequence)DIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQQKPGKAPKLLIYSTSNLASGVPARFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO: 56(variable light chain sequence)DIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQQKPGKAPKLLIYSTSNLASGVPSRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO: 57(variable heavy chain sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNITDYYVHWVKQRPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS. SEQ ID NO: 58(variable heavy chain sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 59(variable heavy chain sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNITDYYVHWVKQRPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKVTMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS. SEQ ID NO: 60(variable heavy found sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAPGQGLEWIGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 61(variable heavy sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNITDYYVHWVKQAPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 62(variable heavy sequence):QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNITDYYVHWVKQRPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKFAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 63(variable heavy sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNITDYYVHWVKQRPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKFAPKFQGKVTMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 64(variable heavy sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAPGQGLEWIGRIDPEDGDTKFAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 65(variable heavy sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKFAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 66(variable heavy sequence)QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNITDYYVHWVKQAPGQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKFAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 67(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCKVSGFNIKDYYIHWVKQRPGKGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGRVTMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 68(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCTVSGFNIKDYYIHWVKQRPGKGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGRVTMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 69(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCTVSGFNIKDYYIHWVKQRPGKGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGKVTMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 70(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCTVSGFNIKDYYIHWVKQAPGKGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGKATMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 71(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCTVSGFNIKDYYIHWVKQRPGKGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGKATMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 72(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCTVSGFNIKDYYIHWVKQAPGKGLEWIGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGKATMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 73(variable heavy sequence)EVQLVQSGAEVKKPGATVKISCKVSGFNIKDYYIHWVQQAPGKGLEWMGRIDPEDGDTKYDPKFQGRVTMTADTSTDTAYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTTVTVSS SEQ ID NO: 74 (variable light sequence) 1 from antibody 10F2Hum:DIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSATSSVSYILWFQQKPGKAPKLLIYSTSNLASGVPSRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  75 (variable light sequence) 2 from antibody 10F2Hum:DIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSATSSVSYILWFQQKPGKAPKLLIYSTSNLASGVPARFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIK SEQ ID NO:  76 (variable light sequence)QIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSATSSVSYILWFQQKPGKAPKLWIYSTSNLASGVPARFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIK

Exemplary humanized antibodies of the present invention are those thathave the heavy and light chain sequences set forth in the followingtable. The bold underlined sequences in the following table are thevariable domains whereas the normal, non-underlined sequences are theconstant domains:

Identity Sequence SEQ ID NO: Antibody A (LightDIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGERATMSCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTW 26 Chain)HQQKPGQPPKLLIYWTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIKR TVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASVVCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTLSKADYEKHKVYACEVTHQ GLSSPVTKSFNRGECAntibody A (Heavy EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 27Chain, IgG1KO) GKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody A (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 28 Chain, IgG1)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody A (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 29 Chain, IgG4DM)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRIIYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPCSRSTSESTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTKTYTCNVDHKPSNTKVDKRVESKYGPPCPPCPAPEFEGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSQEDPEVQFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQFNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKGLPSSIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSQEEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSRLTVDKSRWQEGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSLGK Antibody AEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 30 (Heavy, IgG1KOb)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTALYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWAQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody B (LightDIVMTQSPDSLAVSLGEKVTINCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYL 31 Chain)TWHQQKPGQPPKLLIYHTSTRESGVPDRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQAEDVAVYYCQNDYTYPLTFGGGTKVEIKR TVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASVVCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTLSKADYEKH KVYACEVTHQGLSSPVTKSFNRGECAntibody B (Heavy EVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 32Chain, IgG1KO) GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody B (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 33 Chain, IgG1)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody B (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTFSDYGMHWVRQAP 34 Chain, IgG4 DM)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPCSRSTSESTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTKTYTCNVDHKPSNTKVDKRVESKYGPPCPPCPAPEFEGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSQEDPEVQFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQFNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKGLPSSIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSQEEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSRLTVDKSRWQEGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSLGK Antibody B (HeavyEVQLVESGGGLVKPGGSLRLSCAASGFTESDYGMHWVRQAP 35 Chain, IgG1KOb)GKGLEWVAYISSGNRITYYADTVKGRFTISRDNAKNSLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCARQDGYRYAMDYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody C (LightDIQMTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCSASSSVSYMLWFQ 36 Chain)QKPGKAPKLLIYSTSNLASGVPSRFSGSGSGTDFTL TISSLQPEDFATYYCQQRTFYPYTFGGGTKVEIKRT VAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASVVCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTL SKADYEKHKVYACEVTHQGLSSPVTKSFNRGECAntibody C (Heavy QVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP 37Chain, IgG1KO) GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody C (HeavyQVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP 38 Chain, IgG1)GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK Antibody C (HeavyQVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP 39 Chain, IgG4 DM)GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPCSRSTSESTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTKTYTCNVDHKPSNTKVDKRVESKYGPPCPPCPAPEFEGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSQEDPEVQFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQFNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKGLPSSIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSQEEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSRLTVDKSRWQEGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSLGK Antibody C (HeavyQVQLVQSGAEVKKPGASVKVSCTASGFNIKDYYVHWVKQAP 40 Chain, IgG1KOb)GQGLEWMGRIDPEDGDSKYAPKFQGKATMTADTSTSTVYMELSSLRSEDTAVYYCTTSYYVGTYGYWGQGTLVTVSS ASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSVVTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKRVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPEAAGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVVVDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRVVSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK

The variable regions were subcloned into one or two different suitableIgG expression vectors:

A) a human IgG1-KO (knock-out)/kappa format with a Leu234Ala, Leu235Aladouble mutation in the Fc region to reduce effector function such asFcγR and complement binding

B) a human IgG4-DM (double mutant)/kappa format with a Ser228Promutation in the hinge region to reduce the occurrence of IgG4half-molecules and a Leu235Glu mutation to further reduce FcγR binding

The two candidates Antibody A and Antibody B were purified and evaluatedby the following criteria:

-   -   Appearance of CCF (turbidity)    -   Filtration properties of CCF    -   Yield on rProteinA    -   Turbidity upon elution and neutralization    -   Soluble aggregates (SEC)    -   Purity/contamination pattern (SDS)    -   Charge pattern (IEF)

Example 2: In Vitro Data

Antibody A, Antibody B and Antibody C were characterized along withantibodies 4D11 (Kirin/Astellas) and PG-102 (PanGenetics) which wereproduced based on published sequences. Data for Antibody A, Antibody B,Antibody C and 4D11 are shown below. PG-102 displayed agonistic activityand only incomplete inhibition of B cell proliferation (not shown).Table 2.2. summarizes the data obtained. A more detailed description ofthe data follows the Table 2.2.

TABLE 2.2 Summary of in vitro data of Antibody A, Antibody B andAntibody C and Kirin's 4D11 anti-CD40 antibody. Parameter/Assay AntibodyA Antibody B Antibody C 4D11 Kd +/− hu. Serum <100 pM <100 pM <100 pM<100 pM Cell binding (EC50/nM ± SD 1.2 (±0.28) 1.5 (±0.68) 1.7 (±0.28) 0.9 (±0.3) B cell proliferation: Antagonism 0.3 (±0.13) 0.2 (±0.10) 0.1(±0.004) 0.03 (±0.02) (IC50/nM ± SD) B cell proliferation: Agonism (SI*)No Agonism No Agonism No Agonism No Agonism (IC50/nM ± SD) (SI <2) (SI<2) (SI <2) (SI <2) Dendritic cells/IL-12/23p40  <1 nM  <1 nM  <1 nM  <1nM Antagonism (IC50/nM ± SD) Dendritic cells/IL-12/23p40 No agonism Noagonism No agonism No agonism Agonism Species cross-react.: Hu/Cyno 3 21 Not tested Binding (EC50 ratios**) *SI, Stimulation Index; **Ratio > 1means increased binding to Cyno compared to Human

A. Binding of Humanized Antibodies to Cellular CD40 and Recombinant CD40Protein

The specific binding of humanized antibodies to cellular CD40 wasanalyzed by flow cytometry using human CD40-transfected HEK293 cells.Concentration-dependent binding of Antibody A, Antibody B, and AntibodyC was observed. The antibodies displayed a similar binding profile shownin FIG. 1B. EC50 values of the antibodies of the present invention andKirin's antibody 4D11 are all in the same range of ˜1 nM which is mostlikely at the sensitivity limit of the assay due to the high levels ofCD40 in the transfected cells. The specific binding of humanizedantibodies to cellular CD40 on human Ramos cells also demonstratedconcentration-dependent binding. The antibodies displayed a slightlydifferent binding profiles (shown in FIG. 2) and EC50 values between0.21-1.22 nM. No binding was detected on CD40 negative cells such asnon-transfected HEK293 cells or the T cell line HSB-2 thus confirmingselective binding to CD40 (data not shown).

The affinity of Antibody A, Antibody B and Antibody C binding to humanCD40-Fc protein was measured via ForteBio Octet and revealeddissociation constants (K_(D)) of <100 pM. Due to antibody and CD40-Fcbivalency avidity effects prevent Kds below 100 pM from being determinedaccurately. In addition, the binding to CD40-Fc was analyzed in theabsence and presence of 50% human serum and no significant effect ofserum on binding was observed (data not shown)

B. Activity of Humanized Antibodies in B Cell Activation/ProliferationAssays

The activity of humanized antibodies was tested in a B cellproliferation assay in which human B cells derived from peripheral bloodare stimulated with recombinant CD40L in the presence of IL-2 and IL-4.Antibody A, Antibody B and Antibody C showed potent inhibition of theproliferation of B cells (shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). Comparison toinhibition curves and IC50 values of BI's antibodies and Kirin'santibody 4D11, indicates the 4D11 antibody to have higher potency (FIGS.3B and 4) when tested across multiple donors. When tested for agonisticactivity in the absence of CD40L, antibodies, Antibody B Antibody A andAntibody C did not induce any B cell proliferation above backgroundlevels at concentrations up to 10 μg/ml (67 nM) (shown in FIG. 4)similar to the 4D11 antibody.

The competitor antibody 4D11 appeared to be slightly more potent with anaverage IC50 of ˜0.02 nM and absence of agonistic effects. Data for thethree BI antibodies and 4D11 are summarized in FIG. 4 and Table 2.2above. Another competitor antibody, PG-102 (derived from clone 5D12),also tested in this assay, displayed significant agonist effectsstimulating B cell proliferation in the absence of CD40L (FIG. 4).Therefore, the lack of agonistic activity of our lead candidates clearlydifferentiates them from PG-102.

In a second assay the antibodies were assessed for inhibition of CD86up-regulation in human B cells. In this instance, the assay can beperformed with human whole blood or in purified B cells, both in thepresence of exogenous CD40L. In agreement with the B cell proliferationdata, Antibody B Antibody A and Antibody C tested in human whole bloodshowed potent inhibition of CD40-mediated CD86 up-regulation as measuredby flow cytometry (shown in FIG. 5). Antibody C displayed similarpotency to 4D11 in this assay while the potency of Antibody B andAntibody A were somewhat weaker. Comparison of Antibody B and 4D11 onpurified B cells or in whole blood, shows that the potency of Antibody B(IC50 and IC90 values) are relatively unchanged for purified B cellscompared to B cells in the presence of other CD40 bearing cells orserum, while 4D11 undergoes a dramatic shift in potency in the wholeblood conditions (shown in FIG. 6).

Similar data has been developed when Antibody B Antibody A and AntibodyC were assessed for inhibition of CD86 up-regulation on cynomolgusmonkey B cells when performed with whole blood samples (shown in FIG.7). Antibody B Antibody A and Antibody C tested in cynomolgus monkeywhole blood showed potent inhibition of CD40-mediated CD86 up-regulationas measured by flow cytometry. These antibodies therefore all showfunctional cross-reactivity to cynomolgus monkey CD40 with similarpotency to human CD40.

The activity of Antibody B IgG1KOb and Antibody B IgG1WT were assessedfor ability to mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (FIG.13). In this assay RAMOS cells were incubated with human PBMCs at aneffector to target cell ratio of 50:1. Antibody B IgG1KOb and Antibody BIgG1WT were titrated from 20 ug/ml and the extent of cell death ismonitored by release of LDH. The data shown are from one representativeexperiment. The data show that Antibody A IgG1Wt 20E2-12-RIgG1WT is aneffective mediator of ADCC and that Antibody B IgG1KOb containing themutations eliminating effector function does not have ADCC activity.

Example 3: Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Studies

A. Single Dose IV Administration of Antibody a and Antibody B at 1 or 10mg/kg in Cynomolgus Monkeys

Antibody A and Antibody B were each dosed at 1 and 10 mg/kg IV to male,cynomolgus monkeys (N=3)/dose. Blood samples were collected from 0-504hr (3 weeks), serum was recovered, and samples were stored at −20° C.until analysis. The samples were analyzed by sandwich ELISA as describedabove. The serum concentration-time profiles of both antibodies inmonkeys after both IV doses and the pharmacokinetic parameters aresummarized in FIG. 8 and Tables 2.7.1 (Antibody A) and 2.7.2 (AntibodyB) shown below. Both antibodies showed dose-dependent pharmacokineticssuggesting that at low dose, clearance is predominantly attributable toconsistent with target-mediated disposition whereas at higher dose theantibody is cleared primarily by catabolism. Similar dose-dependentpharmacokinetic profiles have been observed for other MAbs targetingmembrane-associated targets (e.g. CD19, CD20, EGFR, CD146 and HER2).Clearance for Antibody A was 0.8 and 0.1 mL/h/kg for the 1 and 10 mg/kgdoses, respectively. Clearance for Antibody B was 0.7 and 0.1 mL/hr/kgfor the 1 and 10 mg/kg doses, respectively. Similarly, Antibody Ahalf-life was 1 and 13 days for the 1 and 10 mg/kg doses, respectivelyand Antibody B half-life was 2 and 13 days for the same respectivedoses. Although Antibody B had a marginally longer half-life at thelower dose relative to the same dose for Antibody A, this differencewould not be expected to translate into more sustained exposure uponchronic administration. AUC for both compounds was supraproportional andvolume of distribution (Vss) for both compounds approximated that ofplasma volume (˜40 mL/kg) exhibiting the limited tissue distributiontypically seen for large, polar protein therapeutics. Overall, therewere no appreciable differences in pharmacokinetic parameters betweenthe two antibodies.

TABLE 2.7.1 Pharmacokinetic parameters of Antibody A in male, cynomolgusmonkeys (N=3)/dose after single 1 and 10 mg/kg IV doses. Dose CLp VssAUC T1/2 MRT (mg/kg) (mL/hr/kg) (mL/kg) (μM.hr) (days) (days) 1  0.8 ±0.03 41 ± 6 8.0 ± 0.3 0.9 ± 0.2 2.1 ± 0.2 10 0.10 ± 0.02 42 ± 6 660 ±92  12.6 ± 0.5  17.5 ± 0.3 

TABLE 2.7.2 Pharmacokinetic parameters of Antibody B in male, cynomolgusmonkeys (N = 3)/dose after single 1 and 10 mg/kg IV doses. Dose CLp VssAUC T1/2 MRT (mg/kg) (mL/hr/kg) (mL/kg) (μM.hr) (days) (days) 1  0.7 ±0.16 40 ± 2 10.1 ± 2.7  1.5 ± 0.2 2.6 ± 0.8 10 0.09 ± 0.01 41 ± 6 744 ±55  13.3 ± 3.0  19.3 ± 4.2 

B. Ex Vivo Pharmacodynamic Study

As part of the PK study described above we analyzed the pharmacodynamiceffects of anti-CD40 antibodies. To this end whole blood samples wereincubated with recombinant CD40L overnight and the increase of CD86expression on B cells was determined by flow cytometry. Samples wereanalyzed at day 0 (pre-treatment), day 2, 7 and 14 after dosing.Although the increase in CD86 expression is relatively small (˜5-20%) adose-dependent effect was observed (shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B). In thegroup of animals dosed with 10 mg/kg of Antibody A and Antibody B, theCD86 induction was completely inhibited at 2, 7 and 14 days consistentwith the sustained exposure at this dose. Animals dosed with 1 mg/kgshowed complete inhibition at day 2, partial inhibition at day 7 and noinhibition at day 14. The loss of the pharmacodynamic effect over timecorrelates with the faster clearance of the antibody in the low dosegroup.

Example 4: Toxicology Related Studies: CD40 on Platelets

CD40 is constitutively expressed on human platelets (Henn, et al., 2001)and (Inwald, et al., 2003), while CD40L is rapidly and transientlyexpressed on the cell surface of activated platelets (Henn, et al.,2001). While anti-CD40 antibodies without FcγR binding would not beexpected to have effects on platelets, it is important to directlydemonstrate that this is the case. Flow cytometry studies were performedto demonstrate the binding of anti-CD40 lead candidates to human andcynomolgus platelets.

Previously it has been demonstrated by flow cytometry that the G28.5 andmAb 89 anti-CD40 mAb bind to resting human platelets (Henn, et al.,2001). This was confirmed using FITC-labeled G28.5 antibody. 5-foldserial dilutions of G28.5 were prepared and a range of 0.5 μg/ml to 0.32ng/ml was incubated in a 100 μl of platelets obtained from humans (2donors) or cynomolgus monkeys (3 donors) for 30 minutes at roomtemperature. In addition, APC-labeled anti-CD45 mAb was used to identifyplatelets bound to other CD40+ cell types so as to exclude these cellsfrom analysis. After antibody staining, the platelets were washed andfixed with Optilyse C and flow cytometry was performed. The meanfluorescence intensity (MFI) was determined as a measure of antibodybinding to CD45⁻ platelets.

Commercially available 5c3 and selected antibodies of the inventionanti-CD40 mouse mAb were FITC-labeled. Binding to Ramos cells wasconfirmed. The number of FITC molecules per antibody molecule rangedfrom 2 to 4 FITC per antibody molecule. Five-fold serial dilutions ofcommercial and candidate anti-CD40 mAb were prepared ranging from 0.5μg/ml to 0.32 ng/ml and incubated with human (3 donors) and cynomolgus(2 donors) platelet for 30 minutes at room temperature.

A representative graph demonstrating the binding of the mouse candidateanti-CD40 mAb to human platelets is shown in FIG. 11. The four candidatemonoclonal antibodies displayed specific binding to human plateletscompared to the FITC-labeled isotype control antibody. 10F2, 2H11, 19B10and 20E2 demonstrated comparable binding to platelets. A similar trendwas observed for cynomolgus platelets (data not shown).

In addition to these studies, directly labeled Antibody B and 4D11 werecompared for the ability to bind platelets and B cells in human andcynomolgus monkey whole blood samples (shown in FIG. 12). 4D11 displayedsimilar binding (as exemplified by EC50) to both B cells and plateletsin the human and cynomolgus monkey blood samples. Antibody B showed asimilar pattern but with much weaker binding potency.

Example 5: In Vivo Pharmacology Studies in the NSG Mouse Model

The efficacy of the humanized antibodieis, Antibody A, was evaluated inan antibody production model where human PBMC's were injected intoimmunodeficient NSG mice in order to generate a graft vs. host response.Significant production of human IgM (hIgM) and IgG (hIgG) can bedetected beginning 2 weeks following engraftment. Treatment withAntibody A at doses of 5 and 1 mg/kg significantly inhibited the hIgGand hIgM response at weeks 2 and 3 following engraftment. A comparatorantibody (4D11) was evaluated at a single 5 mg/kg dose and alsodemonstrated abrogation of the response. In a second study allantibodies Antibody A, Antibody B and Antibody C were tested at a singledose of 1 mg/kg and showed complete inhibition of the IgM and IgGresponse at week 2 (FIG. 10).

Example 6: Biomarker Analysis

Receptor up-regulation: CD40L-induced up-regulation of receptors can bemeasured by flow cytometry. Human whole blood can be stimulated withoptimized concentration of soluble CD40L and the full percentage ofCD20+Receptor+ cells can be measured by flow cytometry. The change inpercentage of CD86 expression on CD20 positive cells was measured inparallel to the cyanomologous pk study assessing Antibodies A and B(FIGS. 9A and 9B). The data shows inhibition of CD86 up regulation attime points consistent with the exposure of the antibodies.

Targeted proteomics: The increased secretion of proteins upon CD40stimulation in whole blood can be used as potential biomarker(s). Anoptimized concentration of soluble CD40L and stimulation time wereestablished using Luminex multiplex beads platform detecting MDC/CCL22and several other secreted proteins. Clinical samples will be assessedfrom human whole blood in full dose range of anti-CD40 mAb.

Receptor occupancy: CD40 receptor occupancy can be determined in an invitro or ex vivo assay based on flow cytometric analysis of B cells inhuman whole blood. Current candidates Antibody of the instant ininvention and non-competing anti-CD40 antibody 5C3 will be used toquantitate receptor occupancy assay.

Example 7: Anti-Tumor Activity of Humanized Anti-CD40 Antibody

In some instances it may be desirable to determine the antitumorproperties of the antibodies of the present invention. Such adetermination may be made by assaying the antitumor activity of thehumanized anti-CD40 antibody in a SCID mouse lymphoma xenograph model.Such a SCID model can be injected with cancer cells to present a tumor,e.g., 5×10⁶ million tumor cells can be injected subcutaneously into SCIDmice (10/group) thirteen days prior to starting drug treatment. Murineanti-CD40 antibodies of the present invention or an comparison (e.g.,control or other humanized antibody) is given intra-peritoneally 3 timesper week (4 mg/kg/dose) with 8 or 5 doses administered. The developmentand growth of tumors are monitored in the mouse and tumor volume may bemeasured weekly during the selected study period, e.g., 14-day studyperiod. Preferably the results will show a 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 ormore fold increase in the growth of tumors in control mice as comparedto the mice treated with the antibodies of the present invention.Preferably, over the treatment period, tumor growth in mice treated withthe antibodies of the invention will be negligible. Such data cancorroborate that the humanized antibody being tested is effective insuppressing tumor growth in this B lymphoma xenograph model.

Example 8: Prolonged Survival by Humanized Anti-CD40 Antibody

The efficacy of the humanized anti-CD40 antibody on survival oftumor-bearing mice such as those described above can be assayed in aSCID mouse lymphoma xenograph model. SCID mice (10/group) are inoculatedintravenously with 1×10⁶ million tumor cells three days prior toantibody treatment. Mice are then treated with the murine or humanizedanti-CD40 antibodies of the present invention or an Ig control,adminstered intraperitoneally two times per week (4 mg/kg/dose) for atotal of five doses. The mouse cages can then be examined daily formortality to determine the level of efficacy of the antibodies inprolonging survival of a subject having cancer.

Various references, including patent applications, patents, andscientific publications, are cited herein, the disclosures of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Citation oridentification of any reference herein shall not be construed as anadmission that such reference is available as prior art to the presentinvention.

Preferred aspects of the present invention may be described accordingthe embodiments in the following paragraphs:

Paragraph 1. A humanized monoclonal antibody wherein said antibodyspecifically binds to human CD40 having an antagonistic activity IC50 ofless than 1 nM and has no agonism up to 100 μg/ml in B cellproliferation and wherein said antibody is further characterized in thatthe antibody has an in vivo half life in non-human primates that is atleast 10 days.

Paragraph 2. The humanized monoclonal antibody of Paragraph 1 whereinsaid antibody has a half-life in cynomolgus monkeys of greater than 8days at a dose of less than 30 mg/kg.

Paragraph 3. The antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein the antibody comprisesa heavy chain sequence selected from the group consisting of any of SEQID NO:1 to SEQ ID NO:4 and a light chain sequence selected from thegroup consisting of any of SEQ ID NO:5 to SEQ ID NO:8.

Paragraph 4. The antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein said antibody is ahumanized antibody or antigen binding fragment of an antibody having theheavy chain variable region amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1to 4, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ IDNO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ IDNO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, SEQ ID NO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 44, SEQ IDNO: 46, SEQ ID NO: 48, SEQ ID NO. 50 SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQ ID NO: 57, SEQID NO: 58, SEQ ID NO: 59, SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61, SEQ ID NO: 62,SEQ ID NO: 63, SEQ ID NO: 64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO:67, SEQ ID NO: 68, SEQ ID NO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ ID NO: 71, SEQ IDNO: 72, or SEQ ID NO: 73.

Paragraph 5. The antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein said antibody is ahumanized antibody or antigen binding fragment of an antibody thatcomprises a light chain variable domain amino acid sequence of SEQ IDNO: 5 to SEQ ID NO:8, SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ IDNO:41, SEQ ID NO:43, SEQ ID NO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ IDNO:50, SEQ ID NO:51, SEQ ID NO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:55, SEQ IDNO:56, SEQ ID NO:74, SEQ ID NO:75, or SEQ ID NO:76.

Paragraph 6. The monoclonal antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein saidantibody comprises a heavy chain and a light chain, wherein the heavychain CDR1 sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 9through SEQ ID NO:11, a heavy chain CDR2 sequence selected from thegroup consisting of SEQ ID NO:12 through SEQ ID NO:15 and a heavy chainCDR3 sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:16 throughSEQ ID NO:17; and wherein the light chain CDR1 sequence has a sequenceselected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:18 through SEQ ID NO:21,a light chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:22 through SEQ ID NO:23 and alight chain CDR3 sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ IDNO:24 through SEQ ID NO:25.

Paragraph 7. The monoclonal antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein saidantibody comprises a heavy chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, a heavychain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:13 and a heavy chain CDR3 sequence ofSEQ ID NO:16 and wherein said antibody comprises a light chain CDR1sequence of SEQ ID NO:19, a light chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:22and a light chain CDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:24.

Paragraph 8. The monoclonal antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein saidantibody comprises a heavy chain CDR1 sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9, a heavychain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:14 and a heavy chain CDR3 sequence ofSEQ ID NO:16 and wherein said antibody comprises a light chain CDR1sequence of SEQ ID NO:20, a light chain CDR2 sequence of SEQ ID NO:22and a light chain CDR3 sequence of SEQ ID NO:24.

Paragraph 9. An anti-CD40 antibody comprising a heavy chain variabledomain sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs:1 to 4.

Paragraph 10. An anti-CD40 antibody comprising an light chain variabledomain sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 5 to SEQ ID NO:8.

Paragraph 12. A humanized antibody or antibody fragment having a heavychain variable domain and a light chain variable region comprising theamino acid sequences of SEQ ID NO:27 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQID NO:28 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:29 and SEQ ID NO:26,respectively; SEQ ID NO:30 and SEQ ID NO:26, respectively; SEQ ID NO:32and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:33 and SEQ ID NO:31,respectively; SEQ ID NO:34 and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:35and SEQ ID NO:31, respectively; SEQ ID NO:37 and SEQ ID NO:36,respectively; SEQ ID NO:38 and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:39and SEQ ID NO:36, respectively; SEQ ID NO:40 and SEQ ID NO: 36,respectively.

Paragraph 13. An isolated antibody or antigen-binding fragment thatspecifically binds to human CD40, comprising a humanized heavy chainvariable domain comprising a framework region having an amino acidsequence at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of theframework region of the human variable domain heavy chain amino acidsequence of SEQ ID NO: 27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO:29 or SEQ ID NO:30,and comprising a light chain amino acid sequence at least 90% identicalto a corresponding light chain variable domain of SEQ ID NO:26.

Paragraph 14. An isolated antibody or antigen-binding fragment thatspecifically binds to human CD40, comprising a humanized heavy chainvariable domain comprising a framework region having an amino acidsequence at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of theframework region of the human variable domain heavy chain amino acidsequence of SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34 or SEQ ID NO:35,and comprising a light chain amino acid sequence at least 90% identicalto a corresponding light chain variable of SEQ ID NO:31.

Paragraph 15. An isolated antibody or antigen-binding fragment thatspecifically binds to human CD40, comprising a humanized heavy chainvariable domain comprising a framework region having an amino acidsequence at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of theframework region of the human variable domain heavy chain amino acidsequence of SEQ ID NO: 37, SEQ ID NO:38; SEQ ID NO:39 or SEQ ID NO: 40,and comprising a light chain amino acid sequence at least 90% identicalto a corresponding light chain of SEQ ID NO:36.

Paragraph 16. The antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein said antibodies failto stimulate production of cytokines from B cells in that absence ofCD40L.

Paragraph 17. The antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein said antibodies bindto human CD40 in the presence of 50% human serum with a reduction of onrate less than two fold.

Paragraph 18. The antibody of Paragraph 1, wherein said antibodyproduces inhibition of IgM and IgG production in a mammal at aconcentration of 1 mg/kg.

Paragraph 19. A method of blocking the function of human CD40 in amammal comprising administering to said mammal a composition comprisingan antibody of Paragraph 1 in an amount sufficient to block a CD40mediated immune response in said mammal.

Paragraph 20. A method of treating or ameliorating graft vs host diseasein a mammal comprising administering to said mammal a compositioncomprising an antibody of Paragraph 1 in an amount sufficient todecrease one or more of the symptoms of graft vs. host disease in saidanimal.

Paragraph 21. The method of Paragraph 20, wherein said mammal has anautoimmune or inflammatory disease selected from the group consisting ofrheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, proliferative lupusglomerulonephritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), psoriasis,idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), Crohn's Disease and systemiclupus erythematosus (SLE), Hashimoto's thyroiditis, primary myxoedema,thyrotoxicosis/Graves disease, pernicious anaemia, autoimmune atrophicgastritis, autoimmune carditis, Addison's disease, premature menopause,type 1-diabetes mellitus, Good pasture's syndrome, myasthenia gravis,autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, idiopathic leucopenia, primary biliarycirrhosis, active chronic hepatitis (HBs Ag negative), cryptogeniccirrhosis, Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, mixedtissues connective disease, discoid lupus erythematosus, and systemicvasculitis.

Paragraph 22. The method of Paragraph 19, wherein said mammal hasrheumatoid arthritis.

Paragraph 23. The method of Paragraph 20, further comprisingadministering a second therapeutic agent selected from the groupconsisting of a TNF-antagonist, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug,a CTLA4-antagonist, an anti-IL-6 receptor mAb and an anti-CD20 mAb.

Paragraph 24. A method according to Paragraph 20, wherein saidinflammatory disease or autoimmune disease is an inflammatory disease orautoimmune disease that is associated with cells expressing both CD40and CD20.

Paragraph 25. The method of Paragraph 19, wherein said anti-CD40antibody is administered by a parenteral route of administration.

Paragraph 26. The method of Paragraph 19, wherein said anti-CD40antibody is administered intravenously or subcutaneously.

Paragraph 27. A method of inhibiting antibody production by B cells in ahuman patient comprising administering to said human patient aneffective amount of an anti-CD40 antibody of Paragraph 1.

Paragraph 28. The method of Paragraph 27, wherein said human patient hasan inflammatory disease or autoimmune disease that is associated withCD40-expressing cells.

Paragraph 29. The method of Paragraph 27, wherein said human patient issuffering from an autoimmune disease selected from the group consistingof autoimmune or inflammatory disease selected from the group consistingof rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, proliferative lupusglomerulonephritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), psoriasis,idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), Crohn's Disease and systemiclupus erythematosus (SLE), Hashimoto's thyroiditis, primary myxoedema,thyrotoxicosis/Graves disease, pernicious anaemia, autoimmune atrophicgastritis, autoimmune carditis, Addison's disease, premature menopause,type 1-diabetes mellitus, Good pasture's syndrome, myasthenia gravis,autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, idiopathic leucopenia, primary biliarycirrhosis, active chronic hepatitis (HBs Ag negative), cryptogeniccirrhosis, Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, mixedtissues connective disease, discoid lupus erythematosus, and systemicvasculitis.

Paragraph 30. A method for inhibiting the growth of cells expressinghuman CD40 antigen, comprising administering the antibody orantigen-binding fragment of Paragraph 1 to the cells, which antibody orantigen-binding fragment specifically binds to the human cell surfaceCD40 antigen, wherein the binding of the antibody or antigen-bindingfragment to the CD40 antigen inhibits the growth or differentiation ofthe cells.

Paragraph 31. A method for treating a subject having a CD40-associateddisorder, comprising administering to the subject the antibody orantigen-binding fragment of Paragraph 1, which antibody orantigen-binding fragment specifically binds to human CD40, wherein thebinding of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment to CD40 inhibits thegrowth or differentiation of cells of the CD40-associated disorder.

Paragraph 32. The method of Paragraph 31, wherein the cells of theCD40-associated disorder are B lymphoblastoid cells, pancreatic, lungcells, breast cells, ovarian cells, colon cells, prostate cells, skincells, head and neck cells, bladder cells, bone cells or kidney cells.

Paragraph 33. The method of Paragraph 31, wherein the CD40-associateddisorder is chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Burkitt's lymphoma, multiplemyeloma, a T cell lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Hodgkin's Disease,Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia or Kaposi's sarcoma.

Paragraph 34. A method for inducing depletion of peripheral B cells,comprising administering to the cells the antibody or antigen-bindingfragment of Paragraph 1, which antibody or antigen-binding fragmentspecifically binds to a human cell surface CD40 antigen, wherein thebinding of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment to the CD40 antigeninduces depletion of the cells.

Paragraph 35. The method of Paragraph 34, wherein the antibody orantigen-binding fragment is administered to a subject having an immunedisorder.

Paragraph 36. The method of Paragraph 34, wherein the immune disorder isrheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Paragraph 37. A method of treating rheumatoid arthritis in a subjectcomprising administering to said subject an antibody of Paragraph 1,wherein said antibody is an antagonistic antibody that blocks thefunction of CD40 in said subject.

Paragraph 38. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said antibody isadministered in an amount effective to inhibit B cell differentiationand antibody isotype switching in said subject.

Paragraph 39. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said antibody isadministered in an amount effective to inhibit cytokine and chemokineproduction and up-regulation of adhesion molecules in T-cells andmacrophages in said subject.

Paragraph 40. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said antibody isadministered in an amount effective to inhibit activation of dendriticcells in said subject.

Paragraph 41. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said antibody isadministered in an amount effective to inhibit production ofproinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases,prostaglandins, and down-regulate adhesion molecules in non-immune cellsin said subject.

Paragraph 42. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said antibody isadministered in combination with a regimen comprising methotrexateadministration and/or administration of Enbrel/Humira.

Paragraph 43. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said subject is asubject that has rheumatoid arthritis and has been non-responsive tomethotrexate treatment alone.

Paragraph 44. The method of Paragraph 43, wherein said method comprisestreating said subject with a regimen comprising methotrexateadministration and/or administration of Enbrel/Humira.

Paragraph 45. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein treatment of saidsubject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody has a superiorefficacy to treatment with methotrexate alone, Enbrel alone, acombination of Enbrel+methotrexate.

Paragraph 46. The method of Paragraph 43, wherein treatment of saidsubject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody has a superiorefficacy to treatment with Enbrel+MTX in patients who have had aninadequate response to methotrexate.

Paragraph 47. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said antibody isadministered in combination with a regimen comprising an anti-TNF agent.

Paragraph 48. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein said subject is asubject that has rheumatoid arthritis and has been non-responsive totreatment with an anti-TNF agent alone.

Paragraph 49. The method of Paragraph 48 wherein said method comprisestreating said subject with a regimen comprising treatment with ananti-TNF agent in combination with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody.

Paragraph 50. The method of Paragraph 37, wherein treatment of saidsubject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody has a superiorefficacy to treatment with an anti-TNF agent.

Paragraph 51. The method of Paragraph 48, wherein treatment of saidsubject with said antagonistic anti-CD40 antibody has a superiorefficacy to treatment with Orencia or Rituxan in patients who have hadan inadequate response to an anti-TNF agent alone.

Paragraph 52. A pharmaceutical composition comprising: (i) the antibodyor antigen-binding fragment of Paragraph 8; and (ii) a pharmaceuticallyacceptable excipient.

Paragraph 53. A pharmaceutical composition of Paragraph 52 wherein saidantibody or antigen binding fragment thereof is conjugated to a secondagent.

Paragraph 54. The pharmaceutical composition of Paragraph 52 whereinsaid second agent is a cytotoxic agent, a PEG-carrier, an enzyme or amarker.

Paragraph 55. An isolated polynucleotide encoding a heavy chain variableregion amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4, SEQ ID NO:27,SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33,SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ ID NO:39,SEQ ID NO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 44, SEQ ID NO: 46, SEQ ID NO:48, SEQ ID. NO. 50, SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQ ID NO: 57, SEQ ID NO: 58, SEQ IDNO: 59, SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61, SEQ ID NO: 62, SEQ ID NO: 63, SEQID NO: 64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO: 67, SEQ ID NO: 68,SEQ ID NO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ ID NO: 71, SEQ ID NO: 72, or SEQ IDNO: 73.

Paragraph 56. An isolated polynucleotide encoding a light chain variableregion amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NO: 5 to SEQ ID NO:8, SEQ IDNO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ ID NO:43, SEQ IDNO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ ID NO:51, SEQ IDNO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:55, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ ID NO:74, SEQ IDNO:75, or SEQ ID NO:76.

Paragraph 57. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 in the manufacture ofa medicament for blocking the function of human CD40 in a mammal whereinthe medicament blocks a CD40 mediated immune response in said mammal.

Paragraph 58. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 for the manufacture ofa medicament for treating or ameliorating graft vs host disease in amammal.

Paragraph 59. The use of Paragraph 58, wherein said medicament ismanufactured for the treatment of an autoimmune or inflammatory diseaseselected from the group consisting of rheumatoid arthritis, multiplesclerosis, proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis, inflammatory boweldisease (IBD), psoriasis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP),Crohn's Disease and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Hashimoto'sthyroiditis, primary myxoedema, thyrotoxicosis/Graves disease,pernicious anaemia, autoimmune atrophic gastritis, autoimmune carditis,Addison's disease, premature menopause, type 1-diabetes mellitus, Goodpasture's syndrome, myasthenia gravis, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia,idiopathic leucopenia, primary biliary cirrhosis, active chronichepatitis (HBs Ag negative), cryptogenic cirrhosis, Sjogren's syndrome,dermatomyositis, scleroderma, mixed tissues connective disease, discoidlupus erythematosus, and systemic vasculitis.

Paragraph 60. A use according to Paragraph 58 wherein said medicamentfurther comprises a second therapeutic agent selected from the groupconsisting of a TNF-antagonist, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug,a CTLA4-antagonist, an anti-IL-6 receptor mAb and an anti-CD20 mAb.

Paragraph 61. A use according to Paragraph 57 wherein said medicament ismanufactured for use a parenteral route of administration.

Paragraph 62. A use according to Paragraph 57 wherein said medicament ismanufactured for use intravenously or subcutaneously.

Paragraph 63. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 in the manufacture ofa medicament for the inhibition of antibody production by B cells in ahuman patient.

Paragraph 64. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 for the manufacture ofa medicament for inhibiting the growth and/or differentiation of cellsexpressing human CD40 antigen.

Paragraph 65. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 for the manufacture ofa medicament for the treatment of a subject having a CD40-associateddisorder wherein the binding of the antibody or antigen-binding fragmentin said medicament to CD40 inhibits the growth or differentiation ofcells of the CD40-associated disorder.

Paragraph 66. A use according to Paragraph 65, wherein the medicament isused for the treatment of cells of a CD40-associated disorder selectedfrom B lymphoblastoid cells, pancreatic, lung cells, breast cells,ovarian cells, colon cells, prostate cells, skin cells, head and neckcells, bladder cells, bone cells or kidney cells.

Paragraph 67. The use according of Paragraph 65, wherein the medicamentis used for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Burkitt'slymphoma, multiple myeloma, a T cell lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma,Hodgkin's Disease, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia or Kaposi's sarcoma.

Paragraph 68. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 in the manufacture ofa medicament for inducing depletion of peripheral B cells wherein theantibody or antigen-binding fragment of the medicament specificallybinds to a human cell surface CD40 antigen, wherein the binding of theantibody or antigen-binding fragment to the CD40 antigen inducesdepletion of the cells.

Paragraph 69. The use according to Paragraph 68, wherein the medicamentis for the treatment of a subject having an immune disorder.

Paragraph 70. The use according to Paragraph 68, wherein the medicamentis for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupuserythematosus.

Paragraph 71. A use of an antibody of Paragraph 1 for the manufacture ofa medicament for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in a subject.

Paragraph 72. The use according to Paragraph 71, wherein the medicamentis for the inhibition of B cell differentiation and antibody isotypeswitching in said subject.

Paragraph 73. The use according to Paragraph 71, wherein the medicamentis for the inhibition of cytokine and chemokine production andup-regulation of adhesion molecules in T-cells and macrophages in saidsubject.

Paragraph 74. The use according to Paragraph 71 wherein the medicamentis for the inhibition of activation of dendritic cells in said subject.

Paragraph 75. The use according to Paragraph 71 wherein the medicamentis for the inhibition of production of proinflammatory cytokines,chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases, prostaglandins, anddown-regulation of adhesion molecules in non-immune cells in saidsubject.

Paragraph 76. The use according to Paragraph 71, wherein the medicamentis a combination medicament to be administered in combination with aregimen comprising methotrexate administration and/or administration ofEnbrel/Humira.

Paragraph 77. The use according to Paragraph 71, wherein the medicamentfurther comprises an anti-TNF agent.

The application of the teachings disclosed herein is not to be limitedin scope by the specific embodiments described herein. Indeed, variousmodifications will be within the capabilities of one having ordinaryskill in the art in light of the teachings contained herein andaccompanying examples. Such modifications are intended to fall withinthe scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An isolated polynucleotide encoding a heavy chainvariable region amino acid sequence or a light chain variable region,wherein the heavy chain variable region amino acid sequence comprisesany of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO: 29, SEQID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ IDNO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, SEQ ID NO: 40, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ IDNO: 44, SEQ ID NO: 46, SEQ ID NO: 48, SEQ ID. NO. 50, SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQID NO: 57, SEQ ID NO: 58, SEQ ID NO: 59, SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61,SEQ ID NO: 62, SEQ ID NO: 63, SEQ ID NO: 64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO:66, SEQ ID NO: 67, SEQ ID NO: 68, SEQ ID NO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ IDNO: 71, SEQ ID NO: 72, or SEQ ID NO: 73; and light chain variable regionamino acid sequence comprises any of SEQ ID NO: 5 to SEQ ID NO:8, SEQ IDNO:26, SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ ID NO:43, SEQ IDNO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ ID NO:51, SEQ IDNO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:55, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ ID NO:74, SEQ IDNO:75, or SEQ ID NO:76.
 2. An isolated polynucleotide encoding anantibody or antigen binding fragment comprising a heavy chain domainthat is at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ IDNO:27, SEQ ID NO:28, SEQ ID NO:29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ IDNO:33, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ IDNO:39, or SEQ ID NO:40, and a light chain domain that is at least 90%identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31 orSEQ ID NO:36.
 3. An isolated polynucleotide encoding an antibody orantigen binding fragment comprising a heavy chain domain that is atleast 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ IDNO:28, SEQ ID NO:29, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ IDNO:34, SEQ ID NO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:38, SEQ ID NO:39, or SEQ IDNO:40, and a light chain domain that is at least 90% identical to theamino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ ID NO:31 or SEQ ID NO:36.
 4. Anisolated polynucleotide encoding an antibody or antigen binding fragmentcomprising a heavy chain variable domain that is at least 90% identicalto the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 to 4, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ IDNO: 44, SEQ ID NO: 46, SEQ ID NO: 48, SEQ ID NO: 53, SEQ ID NO: 57, SEQID NO: 58, SEQ ID NO: 59, SEQ ID NO: 60, SEQ ID NO: 61, SEQ ID NO: 62,SEQ ID NO: 63, SEQ ID NO: 64, SEQ ID NO: 65, SEQ ID NO: 66, SEQ ID NO:67, SEQ ID NO: 68, SEQ ID NO: 69, SEQ ID NO: 70, SEQ ID NO: 71, SEQ IDNO: 72, or SEQ ID NO: 73, and a light chain variable domain that is atleast 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 to SEQ IDNO:8, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ ID NO:43, SEQ ID NO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ IDNO:49, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ ID NO:51, SEQ ID NO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ IDNO:55, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ ID NO:74, SEQ ID NO:75, or SEQ ID NO:76.
 5. Theisolated polynucleotide of claim 2, wherein the antibody or antigenbinding fragment encoded by the polynucleotide specifically binds tohuman CD40; has an antagonistic activity IC50 of less than 1 nM; or hasno agonism up to 100 μg/ml in B cell proliferation.
 6. The isolatedpolynucleotide of claim 2, wherein the antibody or antigen bindingfragment encoded by the polynucleotide has an in vivo half-life innon-human primates that is at least 10 days or has a half-life incynomolgus monkeys of greater than 8 days at a dose of less than 30mg/kg.
 7. The isolated polynucleotide of claim 2, wherein the antibodyor antigen binding fragment encoded by the polynucleotide inhibits thegrowth or differentiation of cells of the CD40-associated disorder. 8.The isolated polynucleotide of claim 2, wherein the antibody or antigenbinding fragment encoded by the polynucleotide does not stimulateproduction of cytokines from B cells in the absence of CD40L.
 9. Theisolated polynucleotide of claim 2, wherein the antibody or antigenbinding fragment encoded by the polynucleotide inhibits production ofcytokines from B cells in the absence of CD40L.
 10. The isolatedpolynucleotide of claim 2, wherein the antibody or antigen bindingfragment encoded by the polynucleotide binds to human CD40 in thepresence of 50% human serum with a reduction of on rate less than twofold.
 11. A method of making an antibody or antigen binding fragmentthereof comprising expressing the polynucleotide of claim 2 in arecombinant host cell culture.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein thehost cell is a mammalian host cell.
 13. The method of claim 12, whereinthe mammalian host cell is selected from the group consisting of a humanembryonic kidney line, a baby hamster kidney cell (BHK), a Chinesehamster ovary cells/-DHFR1 (CHO), a mouse sertoli cell, a monkey kidneycells, an African green monkey kidney cell, a human cervical carcinomacell, a canine kidney cell, a buffalo rat liver cell, a human lung cell,a human liver cell, a mouse mammary tumor cell, a TR1 cell, a MRC 5cell, a FS4 cell, and a human hepatoma cell.
 14. A vector comprising thepolynucleotide of claim
 2. 15. The vector of claim 14 further comprisingat least one of a signal sequence, an origin of replication, one or moremarker genes, an enhancer element, a promoter, or a transcriptiontermination sequence.
 16. The vector of claim 14, wherein the vector issuitable for expression in a mammalian host cell.